Post by Fife Council

People across Fife are being invited to have their say on the development of Gaelic as Fife Council prepares to launch a new five-year Gaelic Language Plan. A public consultation, due to run from June 18 until August 7, 2026, will help shape how Gaelic language and culture is supported, promoted and developed across the Kingdom in the years ahead. Gaelic has a long and rich history in Fife, stretching back centuries. The area is referenced in the Book of Deer - the earliest surviving written Gaelic in Scotland - and the majority of placenames across Fife are rooted in the language, reflecting its importance as the main language of the region for a significant period of time. Today, Gaelic continues to be an important part of community life. Around 5% of Scotland’s Gaelic speakers are estimated to live in Fife, and interest in learning the language is growing, with adult learning uptake higher than the national average. Fife Council’s current Gaelic Language Plan sets out its commitment to supporting Gaelic development and ensuring equal respect for Gaelic and English. And it is hoped this new plan will build on this progress and align with the ambitions of the national Gaelic Language Plan. The consultation will give residents, learners, and the wider community the opportunity to share their views on priorities for the next five years - from education and visibility to community activity and access to services. Gaelic development in Fife is community-led, supported by a network of partners including the Fife Gaelic Development Group. Opportunities already available include adult learning classes, school-based learning, conversation groups, early years provision, and cultural activities across the region. Councillor Linda Erskine, Fife Council’s Communities and Leisure Spokesperson, said: “Gaelic is an important part of Fife’s heritage, but it is also very much part of our present and future. “We have a growing community of people who want to learn, use and celebrate Gaelic, and this new plan is an opportunity to build on that momentum. “We want to hear from as many people as possible - whether you speak Gaelic, are learning, or are simply interested in seeing it thrive in Fife. “Your views will help shape how we support Gaelic across our communities over the next five years.” Fife’s new Gaelic Language Plan will continue Fife Council’s commitment under the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 to promote the language and ensure it is visible, valued and accessible. The consultation is now open for responses, and you can take part by visiting: https://lnkd.in/eXDw_tRQ You can also contact [email protected] for further information.