Bord na Gaidhlig, the Gaelic development agency, is proposing various measures to “normalise” the use of Gaelic and promote development of the language and its culture in the home and in community life.

Figures from the Registrar General for Scotland show that about 92,000 Scots can speak Gaelic.

The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 came into force in February, and Allan Campbell, Bord na Gaidhlig’s chief executive, said: “The draft guidance on Gaelic language plans details the way forward for public bodies in the production of Gaelic plans as required by the act, but the guidance will also be of value to private and voluntary sector bodies wishing to develop Gaelic plans.” The agency will be holding a programme of public meetings across Scotland to present the draft national plan.

Peter Peacock, Minister for Gaelic, said: “I hope all those with an interest in the Gaelic language - fluent speakers, learners and others alike - will take part in this consultation, giving the bord their views on what its vision for future Gaelic development should include.”