The 12th of May became a momentous evening with respect to dialect, specifically the Scottish Gaelic dialect and therefore the Scottish people.

Found in the last census of Scotland, which occurred during 2001 there were a total of 58,652 Gaelic speakers. The general trend for the language has been one of steady decline. But nevertheless despite the shortage of Gaelic speakers, right now there is room for  optimism.

Scotland Act

With the development of devolution, Scottish matters have begun to be given increased focus, and the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act was put into law by the Scottish Parliament on 21 April 2005.

In October 2009, an important settlement was made which permits Scottish Gaelic to be used formally amongst Scottish Government ministers and European Union officials. The offer was agreed upon by the Uk’s representative to the EU and the Scottish government.

This does not give Scottish Gaelic formal status in the Eu, but gives it the right to be a means of formal communications in the EU’s institutions. The Scottish government may have to cover English translation services from Gaelic to other European languages.

The essential factor to make is Scottish Gaelic has been granted to be put to use. Exactely how much it may be used for both formalised and casual communication is yet to actually be seen, but do not foresee English to go away anytime soon.

Historic day

Scottish education secretary Michael Russell claimed a place in history as the very first man or woman to tackle an European union gathering in Scots Gaelic.

Mr Russell delivered his speech at a meeting of ministers from just about all fellow member countries speaking about education, youth and culture..

Interpreters had been supplied for his co-workers as he spoke about youth policies in Gaelic just before reverting to English.

Mr Russell said it was a great honour to be the first minister to deliver a speech in Gaelic.

He said: “The Scottish Government is committed to a sustainable future for the Gaelic language. I can think of no better way to promote the language within Europe than at a Council meeting which, by definition, encourages and promotes multilingualism.”

A Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2009 established the technical plans that will allow for Scottish Gaelic to be used inside Eu establishments.

However, interpretation  will only be provided from Scots Gaelic into English, and not from English into Scots Gaelic – and the expense of supplying interpreting and translation services must be paid for in the devolved Scottish government.