Bòrd na Gàidhlig
1Constitution and functions of Bòrd na Gàidhlig
(1)
There is established a body corporate to be known as Bòrd na Gàidhlig (in this Act referred to as “the Bòrd”).
(2)
The Bòrd has the general functions of—
(a)
promoting, and facilitating the promotion of—
(i)
the use and understanding of the Gaelic language, and
(ii)
Gaelic education and Gaelic culture,
F1(aa)
monitoring, and reporting to the Scottish Ministers on, compliance by relevant public authorities with their duties under this Act,
(ab)
advising and assisting (either on request or when it thinks fit) any person on matters relating to the development of the Gaelic language, Gaelic education and Gaelic culture in a particular area,
(b)
advising (either on request or when it thinks fit) the Scottish Ministers, public bodies and other persons exercising functions of a public nature on matters relating to the Gaelic language, Gaelic education and Gaelic culture,
(c)
advising (on request) other persons on matters relating to the Gaelic language, Gaelic education and Gaelic culture,
F2(d)
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(3)
The functions conferred on the Bòrd by this Act are to be exercised with a view to F3ensuring that the Gaelic language is treated with equal respect to the English language through—
F4(za)
encouraging and supporting the use and understanding of the Gaelic language, with a particular focus on areas of linguistic significance,
(a)
increasing the number of persons who are able to use and understand the Gaelic language,
F5(b)
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(c)
facilitating access, in Scotland and elsewhere, to the Gaelic language and Gaelic culture.
F6(3A)
The Bòrd must, on the request of a relevant public authority, provide the authority free of charge with assistance in relation to the application of this Act to the authority.
(3B)
In giving assistance under subsection (3A), the Bòrd must seek to give effect, so far as is both appropriate in the circumstances and reasonably practicable, to the principle that the Gaelic and English languages should be accorded equal respect.
(3C)
In exercising its function under subsection (2)(ab), the Bòrd must in particular provide, or procure the provision of, advice, assistance and support to any person in the preparation of a plan for the development or promotion of the Gaelic language, Gaelic education and Gaelic culture in relation to a community in a particular area.
(4)
The Scottish Ministers may give the Bòrd directions (of a general or specific character) and guidance as to the exercise of the Bòrd's functions.
(5)
The Scottish Ministers may vary or revoke any directions or guidance given under subsection (4).
(6)
Schedule 1 makes further provision with respect to the status, constitution, proceedings, etc. of the Bòrd.