Businesses 'increasingly' using Gaelic

Firms and organisations are increasingly using Gaelic in marketing materials and signs, according to language group Comunn na Gaidhlig.

It commissioned a £35,000 study of the use of Gaelic by companies and bodies in Scotland.

Comunn na Gaidhlig chief executive Donald MacNeill said the research suggested organisations felt bilingual signs raised their profiles.

The Gaelic group offers grant assistance for bilingual signs.

Mr MacNeill said: "Most of the businesses which have responded to our survey, and participated in this scheme, say they have got involved for marketing purposes.

"In a tough environment what they are saying is Gaelic gives them that little extra selling point."

Last week, the president of one of Gaelic's oldest organisations called for the language to be used more prominently on the Western Isles.

John MacLeod, of An Comunn Gaidhealach, said Gaelic should be the islands' "main language of public affairs".

He said non-speakers could be offered translations using available technology.

Mr MacLeod said those who did not understand Gaelic would not be excluded.