Using it or losing it: Gaelic media and language
As part of Gaelic Week 2026, explore Gaelic-language digital media and broadcasting through the generations. With contributions from Gaelic media broadcasters Matthew MacIver, Cathy MacDonald and Calum Maclean, we will discuss the expansion of TV broadcasting in the 1980s, to the launch of BBC Alba, to the current world of digital connection.
How has Gaelic media represented and supported the community it serves, and how can it contribute to maintaining use of Gaelic in the future? Should we count on specialist broadcasters to inform, entertain, and educate through Gaelic, or do we also have to do it ourselves?
Drawing on the Gaelic Week theme of 'Use it or Lose it' Gaelic media practitioners representing different periods of this constantly evolving sector will discuss their perspectives on these issues. How should we 'use it' to avoid 'losing it'?
This event will be in English with some sort sections in Gaelic.
Part of Gaelic Week 2026.
About the contributors
Matthew MacIver is a native Gaelic speaker from Lewis and former Chair of Bòrd na Gàidhlig. As a member of the original Gaelic Television Committee set up by the Broadcasting Act of 1990, he was intricately involved with the establishment of modern Gaelic broadcasting.
Cathy MacDonald is a bilingual broadcaster with over 25 successful years across a wide range of programmes as a presenter and producer. She began her career in television, in current affairs, with BBC Scotland's Gaelic Department, and has over the years presented a variety of programmes on both radio and television, gaining vast experience in live broadcasting.
Calum Maclean is an experienced outdoor swimmer, broadcaster and a native Gaelic speaker. In his work, he often combines all three of these skills, creating videos that combine adventure, entertainment and education to teach others about Gaelic words, water safety or responsible behaviour in the great outdoors.
