The Office of Gaelic Affairs has taken another step in the development and promotion of the Gaelic language and culture in Nova Scotia by naming a permanent chief executive officer.
Longtime Gaelic-language promoter Lewis MacKinnon, who had been acting in the position, will continue as permanent CEO after winning a competition for the job.
"As a Gaelic speaker, teacher, volunteer and advocate for further Gaelic development in the province, Lewis is the right person for this assignment," said Angus MacIsaac, Minister responsible for Gaelic Affairs. "He has the perspective and experience required to address the important work of Gaelic renewal and development." A former student union president at St. Francis Xavier University, Mr. MacKinnon graduated in 1992 with a major in political science and a minor in Celtic studies.
He served as president of Comhairle na Gàidhlig/Gaelic Council of Nova Scotia for seven years and has taught Gaelic on evenings and weekends since 1997 through programs offered by Comunn Gàidhlig an Àrd-Bhaile/Gaelic Society of Halifax. He is also a founding member of Sgoil Ghàidhlig an Àrd-Bhaile/Gaelic Language Society of Halifax and regularly assists as a language instructor. He is completing a Gaelic language master's degree through St. Francis Xavier University's department of Celtic studies.
"This is an exciting and invigorating time for the Gaelic language and Gaelic communities in our province," said Mr. MacKinnon. "The work ahead is significant not only in terms of its challenges and scope, but also in terms of its importance to Nova Scotia and Nova Scotians. The variety of languages and cultures contributes to the diversity, life and economy of our province. They are the essence of who we are."
The mandate of the Office of Gaelic Affairs is to develop greater awareness and appreciation for Gaelic language and culture, consult with communities on ongoing community-based Gaelic language programs, and the development of a Gaelic-language plan and policy directions for the province.
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The Office of Gaelic Affairs has taken another step in the development and promotion of the Gaelic language and culture in Nova Scotia by naming a permanent chief executive officer.
Longtime Gaelic-language promoter Lewis MacKinnon, who had been acting in the position, will continue as permanent CEO after winning a competition for the job.
Mr. MacKinnon has many years of experience as a business manager and has been a champion of the Gaelic language.
Minister responsible for Gaelic Affairs Angus MacIsaac says Mr. MacKinnon has the perspective and experience required to address the important work of Gaelic renewal and development in Nova Scotia.
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