Council to renew links with Nova Scotia
The Highland Council has taken the opportunity during the Royal National Mòd to announce it will be renewing its Memorandum of Understanding with the Province of Nova Scotia.
In October of 2002, the Province and Council originally signed their first MOU that outlined areas of joint interest and cooperation to strengthen Gaelic language and culture on both sides of the ocean.
During a press conference held in Inverness today, the Convener of the Council, Councillor Jimmy Gray said he was delighted that both parties would be renewing their partnership which over the years has proved to be very beneficial.
He said: “The Memorandum recognises the unique connection that exists between our areas in terms of language, a common culture, family ties and emigration. Since it was originally signed back in 2002 we have worked in partnership to foster opportunities promoting the language and making the links between cultural and economic development through tourism.
“Many Gaelic based activities between us and Nova Scotia have taken place over the years including youth educational trips, music trips, educational projects, the exchange of resources for promoting Gaelic, tutor exchanges and literature activities. I am therefore delighted this solid partnership will be renewed and I look forward to seeing ties strengthened even more over the coming years.”
The Convener invited the Minister of Environment, the Honourable Randy Delorey who is also the Minister Responsible for Gaelic Affairs, to the Mòd but unfortunately he was unable to attend. Mr Delorey did however send a message of support which said he was also delighted that the Memorandum of Understanding, which reinforces the shared Gaelic connections, would be continuing.
Lewis MacKinnon the Executive Director of Gaelic Affairs for the Province of Nova Scotia was able to be in Inverness for the Mòd and he said: “The Memorandum has proved to be a very successful way to run joint campaigns, exchanges and projects and provides real support for people to learn about the Gaelic language and to explore the culture and history that ties our two nations closely together. We too are delighted this commitment will be continuing and we look forward to working closely with The Highland Council.”
The joint signing of the new Memorandum of Understanding will take place early next year.