All new MSPs to get Gaelic lessons... at our expense

ALL newly elected MSPs will be offered taxpayer-funded Gaelic classes in the latest bid to boost use of the language.

The move is among a series of measures set out in a five-year plan to promote Gaelic – which is spoken by only 58,000 Scots – in the Scottish parliament.

As well as calling for ‘bespoke short Gaelic sessions’ for the new intake of MSPs after the 2021 election, it says staff dealing with the public – such as security, receptionists and tour guides – should have to attend mandatory ‘Gaelic awareness’ classes. The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act (2005) stipulates that the quango Bòrd na Gàidhlig, must prepare a National Gaelic Language Plan every five years. Most public bodies are also asked to produce their own set of proposals.

The Scottish parliament’s new draft Gaelic Language Plan covers 2018-23. The ultimate aim is to put the language on an equal footing with English. But a spokesman for the Scottish Conservatives said: ‘While there is a place for Gaelic in public life, the SNP Government needs to be careful not to prioritise it at the expense of other languages.

‘People in areas like the North-East where Doric has a strong tradition will be wondering when their time for huge investment is going to come. And with public finances tight, people will question if it’s really necessary for MSPs and parliamentary staff to be given these courses.’

The proposals are being considered by the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body. The final plan will be sent to Bòrd na Gàidhlig by the end of next month.

Shona MacLennan, of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, said: ‘It has been demonstrated that Gaelic language and culture contribute to Scotland’s economy, its attractiveness to domestic and international visitors, and to levels of attainment in education.

‘Therefore it is clear that expanding Gaelic’s use benefits Scotland. It is important that it is seen and heard in Scotland’s parliament.’