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New dawn for Gaelic broadcasting
26/08/2008
The launch of BBC Alba will mark a new era for broadcasting and Gaelic, First Minister Alex Salmond said today while visiting the channel's new studios on Skye.
On a visit to Sabhal Mor Ostaig, the First Minister recorded a welcome message for the launch of the Scottish Government funded channel on September 19.
The FM said:
"The Scottish Government is firmly committed to ensuring a successful and sustainable future for Gaelic in Scotland. The launch of BBC Alba marks a truly exciting time for the language and for Scottish broadcasting.
"The Scottish Government is providing £12.4 million in 2008-09 to fund MG Alba and support the new channel with the aim of raising the status of Gaelic and enriching the cultural life of Scotland.
"This new channel is not only significant for the future of Gaelic, but also Scotland's broadcasting landscape. It will be a great boost to creativity and the economy as it will promote jobs, skills and talent.
"Good progress is already being made in most key areas of Gaelic development, including the expansion of Gaelic education and increasing support for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig.
"Earlier this year I opened The Fàs Centre on the campus of the Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, a new hub for Scottish creative talent which aims to attract and support cultural enterprises, including media, publishing and Gaelic projects.
"With the publication of the Scottish Broadcasting Commission's report and the launch of this new channel next month, September marks the start of new developments and opportunities in Scottish broadcasting."
In 2008-09 the total Scottish Government Gaelic spend is £25 million, including funding for Bord na Gaidhlig, MG Alba, Sabhal Mor Ostaig and Gaelic education. In December 2007 the Scottish Government announced an additional £2.5 million per year for Gaelic development.