Scottish Gov Gaelic funding, Islands Plan & Languages Act 2025
Key Questions
What funding has the Scottish Government announced for Gaelic?
The Scottish Government has provided a £5m funding package in the 2025/26 draft budget, including GSG grants and support via the Gaelic Plans Fund 2026/27 for public authorities. An additional £1.025m grant targets Gaelic education and community infrastructure.
What is happening with Sgoil Lionail?
Serious faults discovered at Sgoil Lionail have made a new build a priority during plans to use the £1.025m Scottish Government grant. This signals an ongoing infrastructure crisis in Gaelic education facilities.
Are there any consultations on Gaelic language areas in the Highlands?
Highland Council is consulting on designating special linguistic status areas across the region. Bòrd na Gàidhlig is also running a two-part consultation on statutory guidance for local authority duties under the Languages Act.
New Gov funding package (Deputy FM), £5m 2025/26 draft budget, GSG grants; SDS Gaelic Language Plan 2026-29; Attitudes survey; Bòrd Statutory Guidance consultation (two-part LA duties); SFC Plan. Gaelic Plans Fund 2026/27 support for public authorities. Parliamentary calls for coordination and guidance noted; Scotland's parliament has no fluent Gaelic speakers impacting policy visibility. Welsh comparison underscores legislation/immersion needs; recent opinion piece calls for same cultural passion as Wales. New: Sgoil Lionail new build priority after serious faults; £1.025m Scottish Government grant for Gaelic Education and Community Hub — concrete policy signal and infrastructure crisis.