Public invited to share views on plans to give Gaelic and Scots official status

The Scottish Languages Bill, which would make changes to the status of Gaelic and Scots and alter the responsibilities of the Scottish Government and other public bodies to support both languages, will be scrutinised by the Scottish Parliament’s Education, Children and Young People Committee.

The Committee’s call for views gives people and organisations the opportunity to share their thoughts on the proposals through a short survey or submission of a more detailed written response. The consultation is available in English, Gaelic, Scots and BSL and responses in any language are welcomed.

The Bill specifies that the Scottish Government must promote Gaelic and Scots education in schools. It also gives Ministers the power to set standards and guidance on Gaelic and Scots education.

In addition, the Bill would designate geographical areas as “areas of linguistic significance”, change the responsibilities of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the public body that is responsible for promoting Gaelic development, and allow Ministers to create guidance for public bodies in relation to the promotion and support for the Gaelic and Scots languages.

The Committee’s call for views will be open to responses until 8 March 2024.
 
Sue Webber MSP, Convener of the Education, Children and Young People Committee, said:

“We are launching our scrutiny of the Scottish Languages Bill with a call for views on the Government’s proposals. 

“The Bill could have implications for communities across Scotland and we want to hear what people, organisations and public bodies think of the Government’s proposals. 

“To share your views with our committee, please complete the call for views on the Parliament’s website.”