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Westminster and Scottish Executive ministers announce new initiative to promote Scotland's links with Nova Scotia
27/03/2001
A new initiative to aimed at developing a much closer economic and cultural relationship between Scotland, the UK more generally, and Nova Scotia, Canada was launched today by Alasdair Morrison, Minister for Gaelic.
Speaking at the launch, hosted jointly with the Scotland Office, Mr Morrison said
"Exploiting opportunities for economic development must also include exploring our historical and cultural heritage and assessing how we can build on the past for a stable and vibrant future.
"Iomairt Alba Nuadh/Nova Scotia Initiative seeks to build on the unique connection that exists between the Gaelic-speaking areas of Scotland and Nova Scotia on the basis of: -
- a common language;
- a common culture;
- family ties;
- emigration; and
- the example of entrepreneurship led by people of Gaelic descent."
"Past failure to put in place any of these linkages on a serious, ongoing basis, has meant that there has been virtually no economic benefit for Scotland, or the UK generally, as a result of this unique relationship".
Iomairt Alba Nuadh/Nova Scotia Initiative aims to bring economic and business benefits to Scotland and the UK, and to widen cultural identity and relationships.
Its aim is to develop international links and markets across the whole spectrum of Scottish and UK businesses by exploiting the very special relationship of common language and culture, which is shared with Nova Scotia.
Scotland Office Minister George Foulkes said:
"I am delighted to support this initiative which builds on the strong links between Scotland and Nova Scotia.
"I am certain that the historic language and cultural bonds can be further developed to bring real economic benefit to both our communities."
"I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Scottish Executive and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to drive this initiative forward."
Foreign and Commonwealth Minister, Brian Wilson, said that his Department would be involved in the Initiative through the High Commission in Ottawa, British Trade International and the British Council.
Mr Wilson said:
"This will be the first time that a concerted effort has been made at Government level to develop links between Scotland and Nova Scotia based on the shared Gaelic heritage. It is long overdue.
"On a visit to Nova Scotia last year, I was struck by the potential which this approach offers. There is a real desire for closer contact which can be expressed in many different ways - trade and tourism, cultural and educational partnerships.
"There is also an obligation to support and help sustain what remains of Gaelic in Nova Scotia. This initiative demonstrates that the significance of the Gaelic community in Nova Scotia is recognised and respected within Scotland. The fact that this can be translated into mutual economic benefits is a bonus."
BACKGROUND
Iomairt Alba Nuadh/Nova Scotia Initiative will initially be supported by a cross-section of Scottish and UK public sector partners. Incorporating private sector partnerships will be a priority once the Initiative is up and running.
News Release: SE0809/2001
27 Mar 2001