Encouraging census data showing a rise in Gaelic language skills across the Highlands is helping to shape Highland Council’s early response to the Scottish Languages Bill.
At a meeting this week, the Council’s Gaelic Committee reviewed new figures from the 2022 census and discussed how they may influence future designations of Areas of Linguistic Significance (ALS), a central feature of the new Bill, which gained royal assent in June.
According to the data, 18,552 people in the Highland region now have Gaelic skills, an increase of nearly 12% since 2011.
Growth was seen in almost every age group, with the most significant rises among 3–15 year olds (up 34.9%) and 25–34 year olds (up 39.97%).
Cllr Drew Millar, Chair of the Gaelic Committee, welcomed the figures:
“The census data looks encouraging for Highland and reflects the council’s commitment to the language in our schools and communities.
“We welcome the Scottish Languages Bill as it seeks to strengthen support and opportunities in Gaelic and now await the next steps to guide Areas of Linguistic Significance designations.”
Under the new legislation, ALS designation may be granted where Gaelic language skills are strong, or where a community demonstrates a historical connection, active education provision, or significant cultural activity linked to Gaelic.
Eilean a’ Cheò (Skye and Raasay) is the only Highland electoral ward with more than 20% of its population reporting Gaelic skills, a key threshold in considering ALS status.
However, parts of other wards such as Fort William, Wester Ross, and Inverness also meet or exceed this level in smaller census areas, despite their broader ward averages falling below the benchmark.
The Council has agreed to further assess all areas currently exceeding, or approaching, the 20% Gaelic skills threshold, and is awaiting formal guidance from the Scottish Government to shape future analysis and engagement.
Members also received a progress update on the Highland Council’s Gaelic Language Plan for 2024–29 and viewed positive feedback from the Gaelic conference hosted at Eden Court in May.
Further consultation and community involvement will be essential before any areas are formally proposed for designation under the new Act.
