New Gaelic Activities Program

The government of Nova Scotia is doing its part to ensure the language, music and culture enjoyed during the Celtic Colours International Festival will be here for many years to come.

A new Gaelic Activities Program will invest in communities and organizations that promote and develop language and culture.

"The Gaelic language is the foundation of our Celtic music and traditions," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "It's a source of pride, inspiration and enjoyment for Nova Scotians and visitors alike. Gaelic activities such as concerts and dances contribute more than $23 million annually to the province's economy. The government of Nova Scotia will continue working with the Gaelic community to further develop this valuable and renewable resource."

The Gaelic Activities Program will fund projects that increase Gaelic language opportunities in Nova Scotia. It will encourage and promote all forms of Gaelic cultural expression and help develop skills of people involved in Gaelic organizations and community activities in areas such as leadership, fundraising, communication and planning.

The new program is a response to the Gaelic Council of Nova Scotia's strategy, Preserving and Promoting Gaelic in Nova Scotia, released in May.

"This investment will help us build a firm foundation for the long-term development of Gaelic in Nova Scotia," said Lewis MacKinnon, co-chair of the Gaelic Council.

The province is investing $100,000 through the program during the 2004-05 fiscal year.

More information on this program can be found on the Tourism, Culture and Heritage website at www.gov.ns.ca/dtc/culture/culture_gaelic_wtd.asp .