Gaelic classes take off in Caithness
THE high uptake of Gaelic classes being run in Wick and Thurso is proof that there is a high, grassroots demand for the language in Caithness.
That's according to Landward councillor, Alex MacLeod, who welcomed the encouraging news for Gaelic in Caithness.
The new purpose made course for beginners and intermediate learners of the language in the county has been well supported in Wick since it started in the Pulteney Centre at the end of March with 19 registered attendees.
The Landward councillor, who is a fluent Gaelic speaker, urged the Council to respond to demand with further investment in Gaelic services in the Far North.
"Places on these Gaelic classes have been snapped up like hot cakes," he said.
"Organisers have told me that they are way oversubscribed, which is encouraging news for Gaelic in Caithness.
"This is proof of a genuine, grassroots demand for Gaelic in Caithness.
"I welcome the Highland Council's support for these classes, but we ought to respond to demand and invest even more in Gaelic services here.
"I want to see Caithness on a level playing field with the rest of the Highlands - we deserve investment to meet demand here."
Gaelic courses will begin at North Highland College in Thurso on Wednesday.