Success of TV and Radio broadcasting in Faroes an example says First Minister Alex Salmond has linked support for a Gaelic TV Channel to economic progress and success in Scotland.
He delivered a powerful speech (Sabhal Mor Ostaig Lecture - Government plans for Gaelic St Cecilia's Hall, Edinburgh Wednesday - December 19, 2007) on the issue last night.
Unfortunately there seems to be limited reporting of the First Ministers comments in the internet accessible Scottish print media today, however there was a brief report on Newsnight Scotland last night and I understand the speech was also carried by STV.
For those outside Scotland I attach a link where the full text of the First Ministers speech can be accessed.
His support for Gaelic broadcasting and a dedicated TV service in the language is a message that the Celtic League has articulated for some years.
The illustration that he used of the success of both TV and Radio broadcasting in the Faeroes where a tiny population sustains a substantial media is an example to all the Celtic countries not only large countries such as Scotland but smaller States like Mann. Tellingly Alex Salmond pointed out:
"In the small and nearly independent Faeroe Islands - which was an inspiration for Sir Iain Noble in setting up Sabhal Mor Ostaig - there are over 48,000 people. Although this is fewer than the Scots Gaelic population, the Faeroes are able to support two television channels and four radio stations in Faroese - through a mix of public and commercial broadcasters."
The full text of his speech is at:
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J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League
20/12/07
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