HIE Gaelic Plan underpins agency's commitment to unique language and culture

12th December 2012

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has published its renewed Gaelic Language Plan, detailing actions which the development agency will take to support Gaelic language and culture over the next three years.

HIE's Gaelic Plan 2012-15 builds on the organisation�s commitment to supporting Gaelic developments and has been approved by B�rd na G�idhlig.

HIE is required by the Scottish Government to draft and implement a plan which contributes to securing a sustainable future for the language.

This plan describes ways in which HIE aims to capitalise on Gaelic�s contribution to its four priorities for developing the Highlands and Islands � supporting businesses and social enterprises, strengthening communities and fragile areas, developing growth sectors, and creating the conditions for a competitive region.

It also lists actions the agency is taking to improve the visibility and use of Gaelic within its own services.

Support from HIE has helped create and sustain the impact of numerous organisations which enable Gaelic to flourish. These include partner agencies such as Comunn na G�idhilg and An Comunn Gaidhealach, the University of the Highlands and Islands through Sabhal M�r Ostaig, F�isean nan G�idheal and others.

By providing its services, information, resources and opportunities in the medium of Gaelic, the agency intends to serve Gaelic-speaking customers in their own language.

The Gaelic Plan for HIE aims to promote the Gaelic identity of the Highlands and Islands and demonstrate equal respect to both Gaelic and English - a key element of the legislation protecting the language and the rights of its speakers.

Rachael McCormack, HIE Director of Strengthening Communities, said: "I�m delighted to announce the publication of the Gaelic Plan for HIE, 2012-15. The level of ambition in the plan demonstrates HIE�s commitment to Gaelic in the development and promotion of the Highlands and Islands.

"HIE is currently undertaking research on the contribution of Gaelic to the region's economic and social development and the potential it has as a unique regional asset.�

The renewed Gaelic Plan aims to further develop and enhance the role that Gaelic plays in creating vibrant, resilient communities and sustainable economic growth.�

Head of Gaelic Usage at B�rd na G�idhlig, David Boag said: "In order to progress the development priorities in the National Gaelic Language Plan, it is vital that public authorities encourage and deliver services to the Gaelic community via their own Gaelic plans. Highlands and Islands Enterprise has a vital role to play as an organisation in its own right, with staff and workplaces across the region, but also through their social and economic development projects."