The Gaelic language is continuing to thrive across ɬ thanks to a range of initiatives and funding support.
At a meeting of ɬ Council’s Community Services Committee, councillors were updated on the area’s latest Gaelic Language Plan, which includes a variety of measures designed to promote the use of Gaelic in local communities.
The Council has a statutory duty under the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act to deliver a Gaelic Language Plan, with the current plan running from 2022-2026. Activity in ɬ operates in tandem with the National Gaelic Language Plan and is approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the public body in Scotland responsible for promoting Gaelic development.
At the meeting, councillors were briefed on the progress of various initiatives that support Gaelic in the area, a role that involves both direct delivery and support for community groups and members who have an interest in Gaelic.
As always, a key element was the Council’s ongoing funding and promotional support for the Royal National Mod in Oban, with feedback showing that the 2024 event was one of the most successful.
An economic impact report by An Comunn confirmed that attendance was high, economic impact strong (circa £3.6 million), and that many of those who attended were likely to return to Oban for a future leisure visit (86%).
Further positive exposure for the language was also achieved via support provided for other events and festivals in ɬ – of the 12 events backed by Strategic Events and Festivals funding, eight supported Gaelic language and culture.
As part of the extensive work to promote ɬ’s role as an increasingly popular location for film and TV productions, a dedicated section of the standalone Film In ɬ website, which targets production companies, highlights the importance of the Gaelic language to the area’s culture.
In addition, the drive to raise the visibility of Gaelic and bilingualism in commercial, retail, food and drink, and tourism sectors has been enhanced by the use of Gaelic through the Gaelic for Business promotion.
The Council’s Policy Lead for Gaelic, Councillor Audrey Forrest, said:
“Enhancing ɬ’s profile as an ideal location to live, work, visit and do business is a key part of our day-to-day activity.
“Encouraging and promoting the use of the Gaelic language and its significance across the region is embedded within that work, and this report makes clear our commitment to both the language and wider Gaelic culture.”
