Council Launches Updated Gaelic Language Plan 2026-31

South Ayrshire Council has updated its' Gaelic Language Plan 2026-2031.

The refreshed plan, which was formally approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig on Tuesday 5 May 2026, focuses on increasing the visibility of Gaelic; supporting education and learning; and strengthening the way in which the language is used across Council services and communications.

Building upon the Gaelic Language Plan 2020-25, which introduced the use of Gaelic in the Council's corporate branding; Gaelic email signature translations for employees; and erecting replacement town and village signage to reflect Gaelic place names, the updated plan aims to continue providing support within schools and local community groups learning Gaelic, while highlighting economic benefits of adopting the language and culture to local businesses.

South Ayrshire Council's Policy Lead for Tourism, Culture and Rural Affairs, Councillor Alec Clark, said: "We are committed to supporting the use of Gaelic across South Ayrshire and the updated plan enables us to continue to work in partnership with the Bòrd na Gàidhlig to achieve this.  Gaelic is an important part of Scotland's culture and history, and we should therefore work to protect the language for future generations.

South Ayrshire Council's Policy Lead for Health and Social Care, Councillor Hugh Hunter, said: "I'm delighted that our Gaelic Language Plan 2026-2031 has been approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig."

Councillor Hunter, whose portfolio also includes Equalities and Fairer Scotland duties continued: "The updated plan will ensure that we consider the ways in which Gaelic can be incorporated into how the Council delivers services, providing increased opportunities for residents and visitors to learn and use the language."

Thuirt Ceannard Foghlaim is Phlanaichean Bhòrd na Gàidhlig, Calum Rothach:

"Bha Bòrd na Gàidhlig glè thoilichte am plana seo aontachadh agus tha sinn a' coimhead air adhart ri bhith a' faicinn buaidh na taice leantainnich seo do leasachadh na Gàidhlig ann an Siorrachd Àir a Deas thairis air na 5 bliadhna a tha romhainn."

Bòrd na Gàidhlig's Head of Education and Plans, Calum Munro, said: "Bòrd na Gàidhlig were very happy to approve this plan and look forward to seeing the impact of this continued support for Gaelic development in South Ayrshire over the next 5 years."

The Gaelic Language Plan 2026-2031 can be found here:

https://south-ayrshire.gov.uk/article/82078/Gaelic-Language-Plan