Hope for Gaelic

Published on 27/08/2012 00:00

Roibeard O’ Maolalaigh (Platform, 24 August), provides reassurance for those who seek the re-establishment of Gaelic in its rightful place in Scotland.

Gaelic was once a major force, defining a vital part of the development of the culture of Scotland. The Clearances and subsequent attempts by the powers that be almost succeeded in killing it off. They failed as the ­Islands and Highlands stubbornly retained the Gaelic language and culture.

Our universities are well-equipped to provide insight into the part Gaelic played in our development as a nation. It is a powerful medium for understanding our history and our future.

Such knowledge will filter down to our school pupils. Bilingual education can open the door to the appreciation of cultures that might otherwise seem “foreign”. We look back, not in anger, but in renewed hope.

Alasdair H Macinnes

Granton Road

Edinburgh