Gaelic language in public domains

Birnie, Ingeborg; MacLeod, Marsaili and Smith-Christmas, Cassie, eds. (2018) Gaelic language in public domains. In: Gaelic in Contemporary Scotland. Edinburgh University Press, Edinburgh, pp. 128-140. ISBN 9781474420655

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Abstract

This chapter explores the relationship between official Gaelic language management initiatives, as articulated through language planning documents and the de facto linguistic practices of Gaelic speakers in Stornoway, the largest settlement in the Western Isles of Scotland, and the last remaining heartland of the language. Drawing on quantitative data collect through ethnographic observations in different public places and language use diaries of Gaelic / English bilinguals it can be concluded that the use of Gaelic in public domains is driven by different factors, including the linguistic soundscape created by members of staff.