New study to investigate Gaelic use across Scotland

Published on Sunday 9 March 2008 21:13

THE role of Gaelic in the economic growth of Scotland will be examined by a major new study launched this week.

The research will look at how many organisations across Scotland are employing staff in posts where Gaelic is a desirable or essential skill. It will also see how these organisations envisage the demand for Gaelic skills in the workplace in future.

The study is funded by Careers Scotland, Brd na Gidhlig, the national Gaelic development agency, and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Over the next few days, more than 250 organisations will receive a questionnaire, including questions on how many posts have Gaelic as an important skill, the level of fluency and where these posts are based.

The Gaelic Language Act, the imminent launch of a Gaelic digital TV service and a growing interest in the Gaelic language, heritage and culture has led to a growth in demand for individuals with skills in the language.

Posts include translators, teachers and in the broadcasting and creative industries sector.