Agreement to Preserve and Promote Gaelic in Nova Scotia

TOURISM/CULTURE--Agreement to Preserve and Promote Gaelic in Nova Scotia

The provincial government and the Highland Council of Scotland are joining forces to boost Gaelic language and culture in Nova Scotia. Tourism and Culture Minister Rodney MacDonald signed a memorandum of agreement with representatives of the Highland Council today, Oct. 17, in Mabou, Inverness Co.

"We can benefit from the knowledge and experience of Gaels in Scotland and their innovative strategies to renew the Gaelic language and culture in that country," said Mr. MacDonald. "This agreement is one of the efforts under way to preserve and promote a part of Nova Scotia's living heritage."

Six members of the Highland Council are visiting Nova Scotia as part of the Celtic Colours International Festival taking place in Cape Breton. They will also meet with industry and tourism representatives and will visit educational and cultural venues throughout the province.

Nova Scotia and the Highland Council will establish secretariats in each country to initiate and co-ordinate cultural exchanges, language development, tourism and other economic development activities.

"We are delighted with this co-operative agreement," said Andrew Anderson, chairman of the Highland Council's Education, Culture and Sport Committee. "It recognizes the unique connection that exists between the Gaelic-speaking areas of Scotland and Nova Scotia and provides the means to build a lasting relationship."

The agreement allows both parties to use existing resources to establish key contacts and develop initiatives. The secretariats will be set up as part of existing offices in both countries.

Funding for the visit is provided by Celtic Colours International Festival, the Highland Council of Scotland, the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism and Culture and the Gaelic Council of Nova Scotia. This visit follows a similar one by Mr. MacDonald to Scotland last year.