Gaelic language ‘should not be imposed’

Sir, - I was both amused and annoyed by the letters in The Courier comparing the use of Gaelic on the Police Scotland insignia with the Latin police motto ‘Semper Vigilo’.

Latin is the basis of many languages and is still taught in primary, secondary and postsecondary educational institutions around the world.

Many schools and institutions too, have a Latin motto.

Gaelic on the other hand is an Irish derivation and only used by less than 1.1% of the population in Scotland who also speak and understand English.

It is not an official language of either the UK or the EU, although it is classed as an ‘indigenous language’ under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages.

The use of it on road signs and at railway stations etc, as in Wales, can cause confusion for people trying to read directions.It also represents needless expense.

I am sure every Gaelic speaker understands the words Police Scotland so why spend even an ‘insignificant sum’ on adding to it?

We should surely concentrate on educating our children in the language of our country so that many do not leave school still unable to properly read or write English, not teaching them a minority language which has no real use in our modern society.

Gaelic speakers will, of course, continue to use their chosen language.

However, they should not feel the need to impose it on others.

Wilma Thom. 55 Callander Drive, Forfar.

Picture: Allan Milligan. Police Scotland’s use of Gaelic is controversial.