The Scrutiny & Petitions Committee of Scottish Borders Council is scheduled to consider its Gaelic Language Plan 2023-2028 and future meeting dates. The committee will also review the minutes from its previous meeting.

Gaelic Language Plan 2023-2028

A report is scheduled for consideration regarding the implementation and progress of the Scottish Borders Council's Gaelic Language Plan for 2023-2028. This plan aligns with the national aim that Gaelic is used more often, by more people and in a wider range of situations. The council's commitment focuses on increasing the use of Gaelic within the organisation, encouraging more people to use it when interacting with the council, increasing opportunities to learn Gaelic, and promoting a positive image of the language.

The report is expected to detail progress made since the last update and outline key next steps to further advance the plan's objectives. These steps include completing the Gaelic Medium Primary Education (GMPE) assessment process, improving data collection on Gaelic Medium Education (GME) and Gaelic Learner Education (GLE) interest and uptake, expediting updates to online content and communications to raise awareness of Gaelic opportunities, and pursuing formal partnerships with cultural, educational, and tourism organisations.

The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 established the framework for Gaelic Language Plans, requiring public authorities to prepare them to secure the status of Gaelic and create opportunities for its use. The Scottish Borders Council's plan was approved by Bòrd na Gàidhlig¹ on 25 July 2023. The report will also note that the next report on the implementation of the plan is due for submission to Bòrd na Gàidhlig in December 2026.

Future Meetings

The committee is also scheduled to note future meeting dates and the topics planned for discussion. These include the Role and Remit of the Town Team on Wednesday 9 December 2026, the Play Park Fund and Future Plans on Thursday 18 February 2027, and Contracts Processes in May 2027.