Scottish Languages Act 2025

2 Functions of Bòrd na Gàidhlig

(1) The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 is modified as follows.

(2) In section 1 (constitution and functions of Bòrd na Gàidhlig)—

(a) in subsection (2)—

(i) after paragraph (a) insert—

“(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,”,

(ii) paragraph (d) is repealed,

(b) in subsection (3)—

(i) for “securing the status of the Gaelic language as an official language of Scotland commanding” substitute “ensuring that the Gaelic language is treated with”,

(ii) before paragraph (a) insert—

“(za) encouraging and supporting the use and understanding of the Gaelic language, with a particular focus on areas of linguistic significance,”,

(iii) paragraph (b) is repealed,

(c) after subsection (3) insert—

“(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.”.

(3) In schedule 1 paragraph 11(2) (general powers), for “8(9)” substitute “1(3A)”.