Historic Scotland unveils Gaelic Language Plan

Historic Scotland has revealed details of its five-year Gaelic Language Plan.

Historic Scotland has revealed details of its five-year Gaelic Language Plan which will aim to promote and recognise Gaelic as a living language. Through the plan, existing signs at selected Historic Scotland sites including Carnasserie, Dunadd, Iona Abbey and Inverlochy Castle will be replaced with signs incorporating Gaelic, and some sites will also offer Gaelic guide books and audio guides. Historic Scotland Staff are to be offered Gaelic learning opportunities, and the language will increasingly be used within the organisation for everyday activities.

Historic Scotland’s Acting Chief Executive Ian Walford said: 'Gaelic is a fundamental part of Scottish culture, and we at Historic Scotland are keen to support its promotion and recognition, not only as an important part of our country’s heritage, but also as a living language.

'Historic Scotland believes the language has an historical and modern relevance in today’s society, and we look forward to playing our part in supporting its revival and growth in the years to come.'

Historic Scotland sites are also increasing Gaelic resources for children and families, such as Gaelic quizzes, which have just been introduced at Edinburgh Castle, and the agency will also produce more bilingual publications and online content. Two local Learning Officers with Gaelic have been employed, at Lewis and Edinburgh Castle, and the agency has worked closely with two schools in the capital, Tollcross and Stenhouse primaries, to develop a junior guides programme where pupils offer Gaelic guided tours at the Castle, in period costume.

Bord na Gaidhlig chief executive John Angus MacKay said: 'We welcome the approval of Historic Scotland’s Gaelic Language Plan and their commitment in incorporating Gaelic into their everyday operations, as well as promoting the visibility and audibility of the language throughout their different sites across Scotland.

'Historic Scotland is charged with safeguarding the nation’s historic environment, in which the Gaelic language is an integral element.'

To see the full Gaelic Language Plan, visit the Historic Scotland website.

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