Date: 2010-08-11 Category: News

Speech software for blind now in Welsh

A 200,000 computer programme that reads to blind and partially-sighted people in Welsh has been launched by RNIB Cymru, the Western Mail has reported.

The automated speech software, which will be free to download from January, took two years to develop. It will allow blind and partially-sighted people to surf Welsh-language websites, download and read Welsh-language books and receive texts in Welsh.

Simon Cavendish, an RNIB Cymru member, said: I am totally blind, and I have been waiting for the Welsh synthetic voice for over 20 years.

I cannot express my delight at the news that, at last, Welsh blind people are going to be able to use their computers, read websites and e-mail through the medium of the Welsh language.

I have to confess that, not having the Welsh speaking synthetic speech, has affected negatively my professional development and chances.

I hope that in the future, no blind pupil or student will feel so disadvantaged by such a fundamental right as being able to have electronic access to the electronic mainstream media, he added.

It is a good day for Welsh blind people to have their right to read in Welsh recognised by those who take such right for granted.

An 80,000 investment by the Welsh Assembly Government will also allow the software to be used as an education resource. Sarah Rochira, director of RNIB Cymru, said: The wide range of uses for the voice will ensure that people with sight problems of all ages will have much greater access to information in Welsh, which for many of them is their first language.

We live in a visual and print-based world which is inaccessible to many people with sight problems, she said. No longer will people have to accept information in English or go without, helping them not only live more independent lives but ensure they are able to access our rich Welsh cultural heritage.

We are particularly delighted that this will enable children with sight problems, learning in the medium of Welsh, to access online materials, she added.

Until now these have only been available to their sighted peers, and we are grateful to the Education Minister for supporting our work.

Source: WalesOnline