The Gaelic Language


The Gaelic Language is spoken by around 86,000 individuals primarily in the North of Scotland and in the Western Isles (eg. Skye, Lewis, Harris). The vast majority of gaelic speakers are bilingual Gaelic / English. Today there are very few people who do not speak English.

Gaelic (or Scottish Gaelic as it is sometimes known outside Scotland) has similarities to the other Celtic languages, and is particulary close to Irish (or Irish Gaelic) to the extent that a mutual understanding is possible. Another variant of Gaelic is spoken in the Isle of Man (a small tax haven between England and Ireland) called Manx Gaelic.

Sabhal Mór Ostaig is a college on the Island of Skye which is the centre for teaching in the medium of Scottish Gaelic. Information about Sabhal Mór Ostaig is also available in English.

They host:

+ A list of Gaelic Courses (local and worldwide)
+ CLI - Gaelic Learner's Association
+ Gaelic Lessons Online
A + Gaelic Resource List (in the Gaelic language)

Further information on the Scottish Gaelic language is available here:

o Gaelic & Gaelic Culture Home Page
o Gaelic Dictionary Online
o The local date and time in Gaelic
o If you want a Gaelic Penpal, try here

There is an email discussion group for learners of Scottish Gaelic, called GAIDHLIG-B. Most of the members are not in Scotland, but quite a few are. To subscribe, you need to send an email message to:

            LISTSERV@listserv.hea.ie
Containing the single line:
            SUBSCRIBE GAIDHLIG-B Your Name
You will then receive a copy of any messages which other members send to the list at GAIDHLIG-B@listserv.hea.ie, and you will also be able to post messages yourself to the list via that address.