A new five-year plan for promoting Gaelic has been unveiled by the Scottish Parliament.

The proposals set out how the language will be supported between 2018 and 2022 within Holyrood.

They include providing awareness training to all front-of-house staff, showing it as much respect as English as well as creating a space where the Gaelic business community can raise issues with representatives.

Presiding Officer Ken Macintosh
Presiding Officer Ken Macintosh has welcomed the plan (Jane Barlow/PA)

Presiding Officer Ken Macintosh said: “For more than a decade, Scots law has recognised the cultural and historic significance of Gaelic, and the vital part it plays in our nation’s age-old story and identity.

“As someone born in the Highlands and the son of a native Gaelic speaker, I was proud to be one of those who voted to pass the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005.

“Over the past 10 years, our plans have ensured that people see and hear Gaelic being used in our Parliament.

“Despite the prominence of the language at Holyrood, Gaelic remains vulnerable and we cannot afford to be complacent.

“In this our third language plan, our focus is on public services and activities in Gaelic that provide a clear offer to the public, staff and MSPs alike.

“When it comes to Gaelic at the Parliament, we want people to see it, hear it, and use it.”