Funding boost for Gaelic learning centre

26 Jul 2012 03:41 PM

South Uist has moved a further step towards the creation of a dedicated centre for Gaelic music, language and dance with a Scottish Government grant of £5,000.

The additional funding, announced today by Education Secretary Michael Russell, will help local cultural body Ceòlas develop the proposal which could generate an additional £2 million for the local economy and create 50 jobs.

Speaking after viewing the proposed centre for the site at Daliburgh, Mr Russell said:

“Ceòlas has an international reputation and its annual Summer School is seen as an important progression for students from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and other centres. It regularly attracts 100 students annually and contributes £50,000 to the economy of South Uist in a single week.

“Ceòlas want to create a permanent base in Uist and today’s additional funding will help them develop to ensure their ever-growing activity programme brings the maximum benefit to Uist and the best experience possible for their students.”

Background

Ceòlas is a music and dance summer school featuring expert tuition in piping, fiddling, singing, Scotch reels and Quadrilles, step dancing and the Gaelic language. It is set within the Gaelic-speaking community of South Uist. Ceòlas explores the connections between Scottish traditional music, Gaelic song and dance while allowing ample opportunity for participants to enjoy all these art forms in cèilidhs and in local homes.