Meeting of the Parliament 24 April 2018
John Swinney might recall that he and I were on a panel at Culloden academy in advance of the 2014 independence referendum. The green room happened to be a primary Gaelic-medium classroom. A notice above the displays clearly explained:
“We learn about the Gaelic language, and learn the language, because it is a gateway to learning about the history and culture of our country.”
That is a nice neat sentence that sums up what we are all trying to achieve when we promote the language, and its message contrasts with Iain Gray’s rather dismal experience at school all those years ago—it is not that long ago. There is a much more positive and uplifting experience now, which is inclusive of people of all ages.
That idea is echoed across the world. The American activist and writer Rita Mae Brown wrote:
“Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going.”
It is with that sentiment that we support the motion and the two amendments that were selected for debate today.
Liberal Democrats have been fully supportive of the Gaelic language and its promotion. From Russell Johnston, to Ray Michie, to Charles Kennedy, to John Farquhar Munro, my party has a long and proud tradition of passionately advocating for the Gaelic language and culture. John Farquhar Munro often spoke Gaelic in the chamber; indeed, I am told that he often used the language in Liberal Democrat group meetings when he was being particularly cussed and was determined not to let anyone else know what he was talking about.