The Scottish Arts Council has reported an increased investment of 156% in Gaelic arts. The commitment brings the council’s investment in Gaelic arts projects to £4 million over eight years, with an additional £4.5 million towards building dedicated arts centres. The new Gaelic policy is a result of consultation between representatives of the Gaelic arts sector and the Scottish Arts Council. Professor Donald Meek, from the University of Edinburgh, said that the new policy would enhance and build on the use of Gaelic in the community. ‘It is a timely and important affirmation of the Scottish Arts Council’s commitment to Gaelic and the value of the language and culture,’ remarked Professor Meek. Commenting on the release of the policy, Scottish Arts Council Head of Strategic Development, Jim Tough, said that the arts had an essential role to play in the development of Gaelic as an active creative language. ‘This policy gives us an opportunity to put Gaelic language issues into the context of current policy,’ Tough commented. For more information visit: The Scottish Arts Council