Fife Council has backed a new five-year Gaelic Language Plan which aims to build on growing interest in Gaelic across the Kingdom and create more opportunities for people to learn, use and experience the language and its culture.

A report before Cabinet Committee highlighted significant progress made since Fife's first Gaelic Language Plan was introduced and proposes a new programme of activity between 2026 and 2031 focused on learning, community engagement, education, culture and heritage.

The move comes against a backdrop of rising interest in Gaelic across Fife.

Census figures show the number of people with some Gaelic language skills has almost doubled over the last decade, increasing from 0.7% of the population in 2011 to 1.3% in 2022.

Over the last five years, Fife has introduced bilingual signage in libraries, established Gaelic conversation groups, expanded adult learning opportunities and supported Gaelic learning in schools across the region.

Gaelic tutors have worked in schools supporting around 590 pupils, while Fife Music Service has promoted Gaelic song and traditional music with a further 275 young people.

The new plan has been shaped by extensive public consultation and focuses on seven key themes:

• Using Gaelic
• Learning Gaelic
• Promoting Gaelic
• Strengthening identity
• Improving communications
• Enhancing visibility
• Developing the workforce.

Planned actions include expanding Gaelic learning opportunities in schools and communities, supporting families interested in Gaelic Medium Education, promoting Gaelic through tourism and cultural activities, increasing Gaelic resources in libraries, holding annual Gaelic learning events and strengthening awareness of Fife's Gaelic heritage.

The plan also includes measures to improve access to Gaelic learning for adults, support community conversation groups and encourage greater participation in Gaelic music, culture and heritage activities.

Councillor Linda Erskine, Fife Council’s Communities and Leisure Spokesperson, said: "Gaelic is an important part of Scotland's cultural story and an increasingly valued part of Fife's heritage.

"We have seen real growth in interest over recent years, particularly in education, community learning and cultural activity. This new plan builds on that momentum and creates more opportunities for people of all ages to engage with Gaelic in ways that are meaningful, accessible and relevant to their lives.

"Our approach is proportionate and practical. It reflects both the growth of Gaelic in Fife and the views expressed by local people during consultation."

The plan will now be submitted to Bòrd na Gàidhlig for formal assessment before being published as Fife Council's Gaelic Language Plan 2026-2031.