Gaelic programming must be made more relevant

Published on Monday 29 December 2008 20:18

I think most Scots would see the establishment of the Gaelic television channel, BBC Alba, as a step in the right direction towards cultural diversity and representation in Scotland. It has, as many a Gaelic programme did on BBC2 prior to its establishment, exceeded expectations, both with regards to programme quality and viewing figures.

However, as An L, the station's flagship news programme, currently stands, it is merely a local news station for the Isle of Lewis. Giving the main UK news stories in translation before moving on to a host of parochial issues which are of no relevance to Gaelic speakers in the south certainly does not equate with my understanding of the word Alba. The website, if one can read through its poor grammar and writing style, offers even less of a view on the world outside Lewis.

In regards to programmes in general, I'm sure two sheep-related shows (Croit and Farpaisean Chon-Choarach) is a fank too far for anyone.

With around 50 per cent of Gaelic speakers living outwith the Gidhealtachd – a figure which will only increase as the uptake of Gaelic medium education in these areas does likewise, and Gaelic continues its terminal decline in the Western Isles – BBC Alba must itself adapt and diversify to include more news and programmes of relevance to these city-based Gaels, before it alienates those it is supposed to serve.

DAIBHIDH ROTHACH

Slighe Dail Mo Thua

Cill Fhinnean, Siorrachd Air