Parents in Scotland will soon have the right to request the establishment of Gaelic schools in their areas, according to new legislative plans announced in Inverness.
This initiative is part of the Scottish Government's ongoing efforts to promote the use of Gaelic throughout the country. The plans will require councils to assess the practicality and affordability of parent requests.
Ministers may then direct local authorities to proceed with establishing a new Gaelic school if the council's assessment deems it viable. The new Scottish Languages Bill includes provisions for educational standards for Gaelic and Scots, and the official recognition of both languages.
The bill also aims to support the creation of areas of "linguistic significance" within Gaelic communities. This will allow ministers to better target policies to support the language's growth. Parents across Scotland will also be able to apply for Gaelic nursery and early years places for their children.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, who is also cabinet secretary for economy and Gaelic, presented the measures during a visit to Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis (Inverness Gaelic Primary School). She was accompanied by Dr. Peter Mackay, Scotland's first Gaelic-speaking national poet, also known as the Makar.
The visit coincided with the 40th anniversary of Gaelic medium education in Scotland. Ms. Forbes stated that the bill aims to build a strong foundation to support Gaelic's continued growth. It will also boost Gaelic education provision and better establish Gaelic and Scots as national languages.
She added, "Gaelic medium education enriches communities and offers good value for money." The government is also providing an additional £5.7 million to promote Scots and Gaelic this year. Dr. Mackay highlighted the growth of Gaelic medium education over the past 40 years.
He emphasized the importance of ongoing support to maintain and develop Gaelic as a community language. The Scottish Languages Bill is expected to be considered by MSPs on June 17. Census data from 2022 shows an increase in Gaelic and Scots speakers since 2011.