PICTURES: Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes hails new Gaelic centre in Inverness as space for speakers to communicate ‘freely’
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes has hailed the Highlands’ first centre for Gaelic learning as a place where speakers of the language can communicate without the “fear” of using English.
It was announced earlier that the facility will receive a £370,000 funding boost from the Scottish Government to develop the space for Gaelic gatherings, ceilidhs and exhibitions in the former East Church building in Academy Street, as it aims to meet a growing demand for a dedicated space for Gaelic speakers in Inverness.
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The award is a crucial step in developing the property which will also feature meeting rooms for language courses, a café and shop.
During the visit, Ms Forbes said: “I’m here to announce £370,000 for Cultarlann Inbhir Nis in Inverness, which is a space for Gaelic speakers can meet, congregate and communicate freely in the language of their choice without the fear of having to resort to English.
“I met with people who use this space regularly, including four-year-old Charlotte who was talking about the young toddler and children’s groups, the arts and crafts and the café where she can meet other young people who communicate entirely in Gaelic.
“We are very proud supporters of the Gaelic language and Gaelic speakers. It’s quite obvious that the vast majority of the budget is spent on English services and English speakers so to provide that funding for spaces is like this is so important.”
