The SNP is calling on Scottish Labour’s Vonnie Sandlan to apologise after comments she made about the Gaelic language were branded “deeply disrespectful”.
Sandlan, who hopes to stand for Labour in Glasgow Central at the 2026 Holyrood election, dismissed Gaelic as a “regional, not national” language and described Gaelic-medium education as “middle-class quasi-private education”.
The remarks have sparked anger, particularly in Gaelic-speaking parts of the country, where the language is seen not only as a source of cultural pride but as a living, breathing part of everyday life.
Alasdair Allan, MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar and a fluent Gaelic speaker, said the comments were “depressingly ill informed” and urged Sandlan to issue an “unreserved apology”.
“Gaelic is one of Scotland’s national languages,” said Allan.
“The SNP Government has strengthened its status in law through the Scottish Languages Act 2025, expanded Gaelic-medium education, and funded key community development roles to help the language thrive.”
He dismissed the idea that Gaelic schools are elitist.
“Far from being some sort of private alternative, Gaelic-medium schools are run by local councils and are open to families from all walks of life,” Allan said.
Sandlan currently works as head of office for Labour MP Graeme Downie and was recently shortlisted to stand in the 2026 Scottish Parliament election.
Her comments have raised wider questions about Labour’s stance on Gaelic, a language spoken by tens of thousands of people across Scotland, particularly in the Highlands and Islands.
Allan said Labour now needed to clarify its position.
“They must decide whether they respect Gaelic as part of our shared national heritage or whether they support a candidate who chooses to undermine it,” he said.
Gaelic has faced a long and difficult history of decline, yet recent years have seen a resurgence in interest and efforts to protect it.
The Scottish Languages Act 2025 marked a significant step in recognising and supporting both Gaelic and Scots, cementing their role in public life and education.
For many in communities like the Western Isles, Skye, and parts of Argyll, Gaelic is not a middle-class luxury but an everyday language spoken at home, in schools, and across workplaces.
Campaigners have worked for decades to ensure the language survives for future generations.
This latest row highlights the sensitivity and significance of how Gaelic is treated by politicians and policy makers.
