The political will that has delivered the Scottish Languages Bill is insufficient to ensure the survival of Gaelic unless local communities fully embrace the language, Comhairle nan Eilean’s Siar’s Gaelic Committee head Councillor Donald MacSween has warned.
Once passed into law as an Act, local authorities, including the Comhairle, will be designated as Areas of Linguistic Significance and be tasked with working closely with communities, the Scottish government, Bòrd na Gàidhlig and other partner agencies to implement Strategic and Locality Plans.
But states Councillor MacSween: “Gaelic revival in Areas of Linguistic Significance will not come about as a result of political backing, increased funding or the efforts of statutory bodies alone.
“The survival of the language is principally dependent on the desire and commitment of sufficient numbers of people within communities to use Gaelic on a daily basis and learners to master Gaelic to a conversational standard.
“Hearing and speaking Gaelic in both formal and informal community settings is required by children who are, by and large, very successful in Gaelic Medium Education and adult learners if they wish to achieve full fluency.”
He was backed by vice chair Councillor Uisdean Robertson, who said the political support is present and increased funding is eagerly anticipated.
“Statutory bodies are very committed and enthusiastic about working creatively within localities and with communities who are best placed to support and revive the language themselves. As the Gaelic saying so aptly puts it, “Far am bi toil bi gnìomh” (Where there’s a will, there’s a way),” added Mr Robertson.
The forthcoming Scottish Languages Act enables local authorities to provide enhanced and more flexible opportunities for communities to take ownership of and responsibility for Gaelic development.
Strategic and Locality Plans will be drawn up in accordance with statutory Guidelines and Advice, which are due to be published shortly by the Scottish government.
Image credit - CNES
