Put some Gaelic in those bagpipes

Scotland’s whiskies, tartans and bagpipes are national symbols known to any traveller, but not enough is being done to promote the country’s Gaelic heritage, tourism industry leaders say. Now businesses are being urged to “exploit” the centuries-old language to put it on par with Scotland’s national icons as well as its food, drink, music and landscapes. A five-year tourism strategy is aimed at embracing Gaelic as a “unique selling point” after surveys showed one in three tourists said their visits were enhanced by its overlooked history. And one of the key messages for businesses is that Gaelic is “not based in myth” but is part of daily life, The Scotsman newspaper reported. “One of the great jewels at the front of the crown is our Gaelic heritage,” VisitScotland chairman John Thurso said. “There is a tremendous opportunity for people to exploit this wonderful natural resource and make more profit out of it.” Shona NicIllinnein, head of a Gaelic language agency, said tartan, kilts, whisky and bagpipes all derive from Gaelic culture, “but the links to where they have come from has been lost for most people.” Added culture secretary Fiona Hyslop: “Gaelic is an important part of what makes Scotland a unique destination — one that looks to its future as well as its past.”