Dave Thompson MSP

The first-ever group to look at policy and the Scots language was announced today, following questioning during Themed Question Time today (Thurs.) in the Scottish Parliament by Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for the Highlands & Islands.

In response to Mr Thompson's question regarding progress made since completion of the audit of the Scots Language earlier this year, the Minister for Culture, Michael Russell, confirmed the group's establishment and its chair to be Derek McClure.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr Thompson said: "This is excellent news and shows real progress being made.  Scots is an important part of our heritage and identity and I look forward to the group reviewing policy and overseeing the development of the language.

"I would encourage the group to look at the good work done by teachers promoting Scots at primary level and applying these examples to provisions in secondary classrooms to raise its use at all levels for pupils.  I am encouraged by the Minister's work on this matter and recognising the potential cultural and economic benefits linked to wider promotion of the language.

Notes:

'The Audit of Current Scots Language Provision in Scotland' was commissioned by the Scottish Government and identified where provision for Scots currently exists, who the providers are, where there are gaps, and what opportunities may exist to expand provision. It also  recognised the 'potential cultural and economic benefits' linked to wider promotion of the language.

To view the full report, see here.