Gaelic Language Plan

MINISTERIAL FOREWORD

As Minister with responsibility for Gaelic, I am very pleased to support the preparation of our first Gaelic Language Plan. The Scottish Government's Gaelic Language Plan which has been produced under the terms of the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005.

I am confident that our Plan sets out clearly how the Scottish Government will use and enable the use of Gaelic in the delivery of its services. The Gaelic Language Plan also outlines the measures which we have put in place to support the promotion of Gaelic throughout Scotland. These will describe measures aimed at raising the status, promoting the use, and encouraging the learning of Gaelic.

Gaelic belongs to the whole of Scotland. It is unique and an essential part of the rich and diverse cultural life of Scotland. We must ensure we take the necessary and urgent steps to secure its place in the future. The Scottish Government has made its position very clear on this matter. We came to Government with a strong programme of ambitious Gaelic commitments and I hope that our Gaelic Language Plan will help further support these commitments.

Fiona Hyslop MSP
Minister for Culture and External Affairs