Bòrd na Gàidhlig Gaelic Plan

Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the principal public body promoting and developing Gaelic has published a plan to create a new generation of Gaelic speakers.

The document contains proposals for effective use of existing resources and structures to increase the number of people speaking and using the language in everyday life.  The focus is on early years, Gaelic-medium education and adult learning.

Despite progress in securing official recognition and putting structures in place over recent years, there has not been a corresponding increase in the number of Gaelic speakers.

Scottish Ministers asked Bòrd na Gàidhlig to prepare an action plan to make Gaelic more accessible to adults and children wishing to learn the language and use it in everyday life.

Fiona Hyslop, Minister for Culture and External Affairs, said:

"Gaelic is so much more than a language - it is a rich and vital element of Scottish culture, both past and present. Our aim is straightforward - we want a sustainable future for the language and to ensure its survival.

"To create a new generation of speakers requires a clear focus on opportunities for young children and their parents to acquire the language, including availability of Gaelic medium education to meet the increasing demand we are seeing."

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning Michael Russell added:

"Education is the key to ensuring there are accessible opportunities to learn Gaelic and ensure the language's survival."