Gaelic

Scottish Gaelic is our first definable indigenous language.

It is as important as Latin in its contribution to our powers of expression. Ergo, we should give our bairns the chance of a good grounding in it. Thus, the moves by the Scottish Government and the Gaelic board to promote the learning of Gaelic deserve the support of all Scots, from Berwick to Lerwick.

Young children absorb language readily, even greedily, if they are enjoying the communication skills. So we should support any initiative that tries to promote Gaelic.

There are many more people interested in Gaelic than the raw statistics regarding "native speakers" might suggest. It is about time that the language got a break from attempts by those in power to kill it.

Times have changed. Gaelic will not expire. It breathes new life into our burgeoning Scottish culture and should be welcomed at this time of political change. Look about you, fellow Scots, and marvel.

ALASDAIR H MACINNES

Granton Road

Edinburgh