FERRIES and harbour signs will be written in Gaelic as part of a renewed push to promote the language, it has been announced.

Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL), the company that owns much of Scotland’s ferry network including boats and harbours, has unveiled plans to introduce bilingual signs at its harbours and other properties as well as giving all its boats a Gaelic name.

A number of its employees are learning the language and the company said its posts on social media and its website will be written in the language, as well as English.

Morag McNeill, the chair of CMAL said: “We recognise that the Gaelic language is an integral part of Scotland’s heritage, national identity, and cultural life. Our initiatives will help ensure that Gaelic has a sustainable future in Scotland.

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“If Gaelic is to be revitalised as a living language in Scotland, we must all make a concerted effort to promote, enhance and encourage its increased use.”

CMAL is wholly owned by the Scottish Government and serves routes on the River Clyde as well as the Inner and Outer Hebrides. It also operates NorthLink Ferries, which connects Orkney and Shetland with the mainland.