A series of five new journeys into the heart of the Gaelic world were launched in Oban today, Friday 28 March 2008.

The Gaelic Rings, or Cearcaill na Gàidhlig, initiative is a groundbreaking series of trails celebrating Gaelic culture throughout the Hebridean islands and West Highland mainland.

The project is run by HITRANS, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Caledonian MacBrayne, VisitScotland, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Argyll and Bute Council and Highland Council. A new website – www.gaelic-rings.com – is also being launched.

Welcoming the five journeys, that complement the first Gaelic Ring launched in 2007, Minister for Enterprise, Energy and Tourism, Jim Mather said:

“I am pleased to endorse and congratulate this innovative initiative, which is a significant example of inter-agency collaboration involving local authorities, Government agencies, cultural organisations, and, in particular, transport providers.

“The first Gaelic Ring, launched last year, has already proved to be a huge success in bringing tourism to the islands and promoting the area's rich and varied culture. The up-take amongst local businesses has been extremely encouraging and I look forward to an expansion and development of the model. 

“The Rings development has also demonstrated the vibrant business potential throughout the area and shown clearly what can be achieved when public and private organisations work in partnership.”

Well known Scottish celebrities have been commissioned to write about their experiences of travelling one of the routes and they will be present at the launch.

Argyll and Bute Councillor William Petrie hosted the event:

“It gives me great pleasure to formally launch these five new Gaelic Ring journeys.

“Much has been achieved in a relatively short space of time and I am very impressed with the high quality of the materials used to promote this initiative. The project also demonstrates what can be achieved through the combined efforts of all the partners involved and I want to take this opportunity to thank them.

“We are delighted that Argyll and Bute Council are partners in this project and that its launch is taking place here today.”

Philip Riddle, Chief Executive of VisitScotland said:

“VisitScotland warmly welcomes the launch of Gaelic Rings and the opportunity to work in partnership on adding value to the visitor’s experience. The cultural tourism market is very important to Scottish tourism and enhancing what we offer will ensure the market is well catered for.

“There has been a national target set to grow Scottish tourism by 50% by 2015 which has been agreed by both the private and public sector. To ensure all areas across Scotland receive a share of this potential increased market it is essential that this type of local investment is carried out. Only by providing visitors with a fantastic experience, they will go home with a very positive story to tell their friends and family. These experiences encourage repeat tourism and have a long term economic benefit for the country.”

Rory Macdonald of legendary rock group Runrig said:

‘‘The band’s musical inspiration has always been intrinsically linked to the culture and landscapes of the Western Isles and it was inevitable that countless sea journeys on Caledonian MacBrayne boats, over the years, would play their own part in the Runrig story.

“From the early dance band years, touring the islands, travelling on and off ferries, playing sessions onboard; to the continual yearly cycle of family visits and holidays – arrivals and partings, in all kinds of weather – the experience of these symbolic journeys has been hugely inspirational, informing many of the songs. There are numerous references throughout the entire Runrig catalogue.’’

NOTES

• The Gaelic Rings are serviced by existing Caledonian MacBrayne Hebridean Hopscotch® routes and are aimed at a global audience.

• The goal of the organisations involved in the project is to highlight the richness of Gaelic language and culture and places of historical and modern significance as well as the best places to visit, stay, eat and drink on the "ring" routes.

• To find out more media should contact Martin Osler, Geronimo Communications on 07739 185 522 or martin.osler@geronimocommunications.com

Ends.