Steps to support Gaelic entrepreneurs and assess the benefits of
the language to Scotland's visitor economy have been announced by
Deputy First Minister .
A report on Economic and Social Opportunities for Gaelic was
commissioned as part of the Government's National Strategy for
Economic Transformation.
Responding to its recommendations, Ms Forbes highlighted policies
contained in the Scottish Languages Bill, including a requirement
for education authorities to support access to Gaelic medium
education, which will enable more people to speak the language.
She also announced new grants totalling £1 million from the
Carbon Neutral Islands project. Recipients include schemes to
support affordable housing and restore habitats in Raasay.
Ms Forbes, who is also Cabinet Secretary for Economy and
Gaelic, said:
“Gaelic is recognised globally as a fundamental part of
Scotland's heritage. It enriches Scotland's culture and is a
source of wider national wealth. This report makes clear that the
language is both an asset to the Scottish economy and that our
economic policy is vital to the survival of traditional Gaelic
communities.
“We will ensure that more Gaelic entrepreneurs are able to
benefit from flagship support programmes such as Techscalers,
that parents are able to access Gaelic medium education for their
children and that we understand the role Gaelic plays in
attracting domestic and international tourists.
“To enable island communities to thrive, we have also announced
Carbon Neutral Islands funding today which will support energy
efficiency in homes and job opportunities.”
Background
The Short Life Working Group on Economic and Social Opportunities
for Gaelic was headed by Arthur Cormack, chief executive of
Fèisean nan Gàidheal, and published its report last year. Today's
response from the Scottish
Government is available online.
The Carbon Neutral Islands progress report is available
online.
Six projects are being supported by the latest Carbon Neutral
Islands funding, which is part of a total investment of £1.3
million in 2024-25 by the project, which also includes Yell and
Hoy. They are:
-
Great Cumbrae: Installing roof-mounted solar
panels on homes in Millport.
-
Islay: Continuing the development of a tree
nursery alongside a community orchard and wood fuel supply
infrastructure; Renewable energy developments in seven
community buildings across the island.
-
Barra: Decarbonising the Cobhair Bharraigh
community hub.
-
Raasay: Transforming three vacant properties
into affordable rental homes with zero direct emission heating
systems; Restoring habitats on the island through the removal
of invasive species.
