I AGREE with John Campbell (Letters, February 8) that we have an excellent Gaelic television and radio service.
Bòrd na Gàidhlig has been discussing with MG ALBA how we can make better use of that service as a resource to support Gaelic learning.
He is premature, however, in writing off Ulpan as a failed system of learning Gaelic. The fact that there are 1917 more adults engaged in learning Gaelic through this method is a welcome addition to the mix of courses supported by the Bord, and others, complementing the residential and distance learning courses available through institutions like Sabhal Mor Ostaig.
Where Ulpan classes have been offered twice weekly, at Lews Castle College for example, up to 96% of students completed the courses. This may be the model way to learn by the Ulpan method but, while immersion over intensive periods has been available in some areas, the circumstances of individual colleges, local authorities and other organisations offering Ulpan classes dictate the rate at which courses can be completed.
The reason we have a National Gaelic Language Plan is to engage others in delivering what is a national strategy. We have to set targets in relation to Gaelic in Scotland and while there may be good reasons why they may not be met as originally expected, a range of opportunities must continue to be available for people wishing to learn Gaelic, including new methods when they present themselves.
John Angus MacKay,
Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Darach House,
Stoneyfield Business Park,
Inverness.
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