CALL FOR GAELIC EDUCATION CONSIDERATION IN SCHOOL CLOSURES

CALL FOR GAELIC EDUCATION CONSIDERATION IN SCHOOL CLOSURES

Western Isles SNP MSP, Alasdair Allan, has today tabled a series of amendments to the Schools (Consultation) Bill, with the aim of strengthening the position of Gaelic as a factor in the consultation process for closure-threatened schools.

The amendments, which have been tabled at stage two in the bill process, would mean where schools offer Gaelic education, the impact of any closure on the provision of Gaelic in an area must be considered in the consultation.

The amendments will be heard by the Education, Lifelong Learning and Culture Committee on 30^th September.

Dr Allan commented:

“The Scottish Government is determined to ensure that communities, including those in remote and rural areas, are properly listened to over any proposed school closures.

"The Schools (Consultation) Bill will require local authorities to take into account and consult on the impact any school closure would have on the community concerned.

"It makes sense for the role of Gaelic education and Gaelic provision in schools to be reflected in the formal consultation process.

“Where schools are offering Gaelic Medium or Gaelic Education, I believe local authorities should have to consider the potential impact on Gaelic education in that area when a school is proposed for closure.

"This issue was raised by a number of people in response to the draft bill and this amendment will ensure Gaelic provision is properly considered.

"Gaelic education is growing, but could fall victim to closures if it isn't one of the factors taken into account when decided whether a school has to close.

“I hope to be able to gain cross party support in the committee and the Parliament, as a whole, for my amendments.”