Gaelic vital to Scotland

Eighty-one per cent of the Scottish public feel it is important that Scotland does not lose its Gaelic language traditions according to new research published today.

The report, Public Attitudes Towards the Gaelic Language, covers a variety of questions related to the language, including current usage, teaching and its heritage. Key findings include:

• 65 per cent thought more should be done to promote Gaelic in Scotland
• 81 per cent feel it is important that Scotland does not lose its Gaelic language traditions
• 70 per cent thought there should be more opportunities to learn Gaelic
• 90 per cent thought pupils should be taught Scottish studies.
• 53 per cent would like to see more Gaelic in Scottish life

Minister for Gaelic Alasdair Allan said:

Listen to a Soundcloud clip from Dr Alasdair Allan

“The Scottish Government has long believed in the importance of Gaelic to our heritage, culture, tourism and economy and this research shows the majority of Scots agree the language has many benefits.

“Such a strong swell of support for Gaelic from across the country, not just in the Gaelic-speaking heartlands, is very encouraging and just reward for the efforts of those who are working hard to ensure it remains a part of modern Scotland.

“The questions specific to education also have interesting results with high levels of support for teaching Gaelic as a subject, and even greater support for the introduction of Scottish studies as a subject.

“The Scottish Government is committed to developing a distinct strand of learning that focuses on Scottish history literature, languages, and culture and I will be chairing a working group on the issue in the next few weeks.

“We now have a clear, up-to-date picture on Gaelic’s role in 2011 and I will be working closely with Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Education Scotland and other key bodies on harnessing these findings to ensure Gaelic continues to thrive.”

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