HIE launches major Gaelic research project

24th June 2013

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is leading a partnership project to research the ways in which Gaelic delivers economic and social value within the region and for Scotland, and how that impact can be maximised.

HIE has commissioned DC Research to gather detailed information from businesses, communities and social enterprises which are currently using Gaelic as an asset. It will also seek to identify as yet untapped potential to use Gaelic as an asset.

The work is being led by HIE in partnership with B�rd na G�idhlig, Scottish Natural Heritage, Creative Scotland, The Highland Council, Argyll and Bute Council, and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

The research aims to identify examples of best practice in using Gaelic as an asset, highlight opportunities to scale up existing activity and develop a toolkit of analysed data and opportunities to guide HIE and our partners in supporting business innovation, internationalisation and sectoral development.

Donald Macdonald, HIE Board member said: �In the last 20-30 years, there has been marked growth in the area of Gaelic development and it is now time to explore how its potential can be taken to the next level.

�HIE recognises that Gaelic is at the heart of many communities across our area. The research will highlight the economic and social impact of its use as an asset, so that we can actively shape our future support to businesses and communities.�

HIE has provided funding over many years to a large number of organisations using Gaelic as an asset, including the Scotland-wide cultural agency F�isean nan G�idheal, leading Gaelic publisher Acair, the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture - Sabhal M�r Ostaig.

For the past four years, the agency has contracted Comunn na G�idhlig, to invest in a range of Gaelic development services. HIE funding in the last year has enabled 249 businesses, communities and social enterprises to deliver business innovation, community development projects and student placements.

John Angus Mackay, Chief Executive of B�rd na G�idhlig, said: �This is a great opportunity to assess the economic and social impact of Gaelic. It is clear from recent research on public attitudes that Gaelic is widely seen as an important element in Scottish heritage and identity. The Highlands and Islands is key to deploying the full potential of Gaelic through arts and culture, education, and the media sector. Gaelic has a significant role to play in the future of our country, and we need to assess how that can be maximised in economic, as well as in cultural and linguistic, terms".

The research is due to be completed in the autumn.