GAELIC speakers in Helensburgh and Lomond are being asked for their views on its importance as part of a local authority survey.

Argyll and Bute Council is running a survey until Sunday, February 14, and its findings will help the council decide how to distribute its resources for the language.

As well as being asked their level of Gaelic and whether they would like to learn the language, respondents are also being asked how aware they are of Gaelic being spoken and used in their community.

The council’s leader, Councillor Robin Currie, a long-time champion of Gaelic language and culture, said: “Gaelic has played an important part in the history of Argyll and Bute for hundreds of years and it is vital that we continue to raise awareness of it within our communities.

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“Gaelic is considered to be the founding language of Scotland, and we recognise the importance of the language in our communities where it continues to be used, yet it is at risk of dying out if people do not continue to use it.

“We need more people to learn Gaelic and help us to preserve the future of this special part of our heritage.

“I would urge you to let us know what things you feel are important by completing this survey, so that your views can be incorporated into our Gaelic Language Plan.”

It is estimated by the Scottish Government that 58,000 people – just over one per cent of Scotland’s population – aged three and over are able to speak and understand Gaelic.

A statement from the council when clicking into the survey said: “In 2019, we hosted the second Argyll Gaelic Gathering which is held every two years as part of the council’s Gaelic Language Plan 2018-2022.

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“From the event, we received action points from those who attended and we are now looking to deliver on them.

“We have limited resources and are looking for community participation to help us know where to focus.

“The purpose of this survey is to understand Scottish Gaelic needs and requirements across Argyll and Bute.

“This survey is as much for people with no knowledge of Gaelic as it is for fluent speakers.

“We would be grateful if you could take part in our survey so we can best provide you with what you would like and to help us develop our heritage for the benefit of all."

The survey can be accessed by visiting the council’s website at argyll-bute.gov.uk.

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