The Royal National Mod kicked off in style last night with a torchlight procession through this year’s host town of Paisley.
This is the first time the 121-year-old Gaelic cultural showcase has been held in the Renfrewshire town, and the local organising committee pulled out all the stops with the spectacular parade from the top of High Street to Paisley Town Hall, where the opening ceremony took place.
A further opening high note was provided by the Scottish Government who announced £100,000 funding for Gaelic education projects across Scotland.
John Macleod, president of An Comunn Gaidhealach, which organises the Mod, said: “The Royal National Mod takes another important step forward this year by meeting at another new venue.
“Apart from the fact that this town has excellent facilities for our gathering, it is also a reflection on the progress that Gaelic has made in recent years.
“The Mod and the Gaelic language is no longer confined to the confines of the Highlands and islands as confirmed in the recent census figures, but is welcomed all around Scotland, and why not? There is no doubt that Gaelic is good for Scotland, that the Mod is good for Gaelic and that it is recognised for bringing some significant economic benefits to the host area. Gaelic is here to stay and we should make full use of its rich culture and social benefits.
“We have witnessed growth in many areas particularly in the education system. Gaelic-medium education is making big strides forward particularly in the populated areas around our main cities – a new Gaelic School in Edinburgh starting with already 58 pupils in P1, a second Gaelic school opening shortly in Glasgow, and more Gaelic schools on the way in Portree and Fort William.”
Earlier yesterday, Minister for Scotland’s Languages Alasdair Allan also announced that the Gaelic Ambassador of the Year would be vice-principal of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, John Norman Macleod, who continues to make a significant contribution to Gaelic learning.
His namesake, An Commun president John Macleod, said: “In his special 40th anniversary year for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, An Comunn Gàidhealach is delighted to recognise the achievements of SMO and in particular the significant contribution that John Norman has made to adult Gaelic learning. It is good to recognise the valuable work of people who quietly and effectively teach others to develop their Gaelic abilities, and John Norman sincerely deserves special recognition for his services to our language.”