Gaelic and Scots have been officially recognized as part of a significant legislative change in Scotland. This recognition is tied to the Scottish Languages Act, which came into effect on St Andrew’s Day.
New Legislation Supporting Gaelic and Scots
The Scottish Languages Act empowers parents to request the establishment of Gaelic schools in their regions. Furthermore, it aims to increase the variety of qualifications available in Gaelic.
Ministers are now authorized to commission research regarding the use of Gaelic and Scots. This act also establishes teaching standards to elevate the educational framework for both languages.
Remarks by Deputy First Minister
Kate Forbes, Scotland’s Deputy First Minister, hailed the legislation as a “historic milestone.” She stated that St Andrew’s Day is an appropriate moment to honor Scotland’s cultural identity by recognizing these languages officially.
Forbes highlighted the significance of Gaelic and Scots in Scotland’s heritage. She also mentioned that the Scottish government has allocated £35.7 million for initiatives related to both languages this year.
Key Components of the Scottish Languages Act
- Establishment of Gaelic schools upon parental request
- Increased availability of qualifications in Gaelic
- Research commissions into language usage
- Setting teaching standards for Gaelic and Scots
- Support for areas of linguistic significance
Timeline of the Act
The Scottish Languages Bill was introduced on St Andrew’s Day in 2023. It passed the Scottish Parliament in June 2023 and received Royal Assent on August 1, 2025.
Statistics on Gaelic and Scots Speakers
Census statistics from 2022 reveal the following concerning Gaelic and Scots speakers in Scotland:
| Language | Speakers | Growth Since 2011 |
|---|---|---|
| Gaelic | 130,161 | +43,105 |
| Scots | 2,444,659 | +515,215 |
Gaelic Speakers by Region
Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles) has the highest percentage of Gaelic speakers, with 57.2% of its population possessing some knowledge of the language. The following regions also report Gaelic-speaking populations:
- Highland: 8.1%
- Argyll and Bute: 6.2%
This new legislation marks a crucial step in the promotion and preservation of Scotland’s linguistic heritage.
