Deputy First Minister reflects on Gaelic census results

Dr Rothach, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Principal, said: "When we think of census results, there is always a focus on numbers and data. However, behind these numbers are Gaelic speaking communities and people working towards a united aim to improve the use and provision for Gaelic within Scotland.

"As Scotland’s National Centre for Language and Culture, we support and enable healthy debate surrounding encouraging and - at times - challenging insights into the status of the language. We also want to encourage positive discussions around opportunities arising from the census insights, particularly as Gaelic has seen surprising levels of growth in some areas of the country. Our seminar will bring together a brilliant panel to reflect on the wider opportunities and challenges the Gaelic language faces and how these are approached in the Scottish Languages Bill.’

Ms Forbes added: "The 2022 census marked a turning point for Gaelic, with a rise in speakers for the first time in over 50 years. We are determined to maintain this growth while taking focused action for those communities where the census showed a decline in Gaelic use.

“As part of this seminar, I will reflect on the Scottish Languages Bill which is being progressed in Parliament. The
Bill includes measures to strengthen Gaelic education in secondary school and create a system to enable all parents to apply for Gaelic early learning and childcare services."

More information about the seminar can be found here.