Gael and hearty
A STUDENT, a singer and a scholar hailed the positive changes they’ve seen at the Daily Record’s annual Scottish Gaelic Awards.
Pàdruig Morrison, Art Cormack and Dr Finlay MacLeod all spoke of the growth and renewed confidence in the language as they accepted awards for their contribution to Gaelic culture.
Edinburgh University student Padruig was named the Young Ambassador of the Year at the event which celebrates all aspects of Gaelic life.
The 21-year-old, from the island of Grimsay in the Outer Hebrides, said his generation of speakers were beginning to find opportunities to use the language in their work and everyday lives.
He added: “People’s attitudes towards the language have changed. It’s current, cool and no longer restricted to people living in the Highlands and islands.”
Singer Arthur Cormack, from Skye, was honoured with the Best Contribution Award, sponsored by Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
Arthur, who grew up and lives in Portree, reflected on how he had very limited Gaelic when he started singing at the local Mòd as an eight year old.
Now, his own children have come through Gaelic education, a Gaelic school has been established in the island capital and his singing career has taken him all over the world.
Arthur encouraged others to stand up to some of the ill-informed criticism of Gaelic which he regularly, and politely, shoots down.
Someone who has never been short of a controversial opinion was honoured with a lifetime achievement award.
Dr Finlay MacLeod, from Lewis, was given a standing ovation from the Glasgow audience.
For the academic, who has been involved in the key developments in Gaelic education, broadcasting, the arts and publishing, it was the culmination of a busy 80th year.
Dr Finlay, as he is known, has spent a lifetime studying many of the aspects of Gaelic life in his native Western Isles.
His opinions and what he has contributed to subjects ranging from education and religion to the economy and environment often challenge conventional thinking.
In a witty acceptance speech, Finlay said he had so many people to thank that he would thank no one, before returning to the table and his wife, Norma MacLeod.
The dinner was held in Glasgow’s Grand Central hotel ballroom with fantastic entertainment provided by Julie Fowlis and her band. Broadcaster Cathy MacDonald returned as host for the night, now in its fifth year and firmly established in the Gaelic calendar.
Entrants from across Scotland and beyond were nominated in several categories co-ordinated by the main sponsors Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the language development agency.
Arthur Cormack accepted on behalf of Fèisan nan Gàidheal the award for Gaelic as an Economic Asset, sponsored by Thornton’s Investments.
Fife was recognised as part of the Gaelic world with a Community, Heritage & Tourism Award, sponsored by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
Tireless work by community organiser Kirsty Strachan created the Fife Gaelic Development Group, who have linked up Gaelic speakers and learners.
Robert Currie, who is behind the worldwide Clan Currie Society, was recognised in the International Award category, sponsored by MG ALBA.
His activities include organising events on Ellis Island during the world’s biggest Tartan Day.
For her work at An Lanntair gallery in Stornoway, Alex MacDonald was honoured with an Arts and Culture award sponsored by Creative Scotland.
She was recognised for her role in producing Ballantyne, a collaboration that brought together renowned composer Craig Armstrong with musician and tradition bearer Calum Martin to create a new interpretation of Gaelic psalm singing.
Bòrd na Gàidhlig chief executive Shona MacLennan said: “We’re delighted with the success of the Scottish Gaelic Awards 2017 and we congratulate all the winners.”