News release

Province Celebrates Gaelic Awareness Month 2010-Mìos na Gàidhlig 2010

Gaelic Affairs

May is a time to celebrate the province's Gaelic language and heritage. The theme of this year's Gaelic Awareness Month is Meudachadh na Gàidhlig or Growing Gaelic.

Maureen MacDonald, Minister responsible for Gaelic Affairs, said Gaelic culture and language are a unique part of the province's heritage and it is important to develop it.

"Through community-based programs and building awareness, we continue to see increased interest in Gaelic language and cultural activities," said Ms. MacDonald. "Not only is Gaelic making life better in our communities, the Gaelic language and culture contributes $23 million annually to the province's economy."

Lewis MacKinnon, CEO of the Office of Gaelic Affairs, said the province will host activities throughout May.

"The Office of Gaelic Affairs, in partnership with the Gaelic Council of Nova Scotia, will be distributing a brochure of English-Gaelic boundary signs," said Mr. MacKinnon. "This brochure will include a link to sound files so those not familiar with the Gaelic names and their pronunciation can access them."

A number of events are also being planned by Gaelic communities and organizations across the province.

For a calendar of Gaelic events, visit www.gaelic.ca . For more information on the Office of Gaelic Affairs, e-mail gaelicinfo@gov.ns.ca or call 1-888-842-3542.

In Nova Scotia, there are 28 Gaelic-related organizations, three universities that offer Gaelic studies and two government-supported institutions -- Highland Village and The Gaelic College of Celtic Folk Arts. More than 14 communities have participated in community-based adult Gaelic language learning. Gaelic language or cultural studies are offered in 12 public schools with 1,100 students enrolled. About 300,000 people attend more than 2,000 Gaelic-related events annually.