This weekend sees third Gaelic Gathering go online

Argyll and Bute Council is encouraging people to book their places for the third Gaelic Gathering, which takes place virtually via Zoom on Saturday March 12, writes Sandy Neil.

The event is free and provides an opportunity for organisations, community groups and individuals to meet with national organisations and share ideas on how they can work in partnership to help grow the Gaelic language.

Councillor Robin Currie, leader of Argyll and Bute Council, said: 'This year’s event will focus specifically on Argyll Gaelic and the variations that exist in terms of local dialect.

'It will give people the chance to get together and look at what we can do to strengthen the use of Gaelic in the area.

'Gaelic plays a very important part in the history of Argyll and Bute and it is in all our interests to help it flourish and make sure it has a long-term future.'

Holding a Gaelic Gathering every two years is part of the council’s Gaelic Language Plan – a plan that developed to get more people to learn and speak the language, and make the most of the economic benefits that it brings.

The Gaelic Gathering will run from 9.30am until 4.30pm and places can be booked on EventBrite.

A virtual cèilidh will also take place in the evening, following the gathering, hosted by Fèisean nan Gàidheal. The event will run from 7pm to 9pm on Zoom.

Ceilidh-only tickets are available online from www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/271984812897.