Scots is one of 12 UK and European languages identified by language-learning app Busuu as endangered. See the previous post on 22 May. MSP Sharon Dowey, who was elected to the South Scotland Region list, asked in Holyrood what steps are being done to enhance the number of speakers and when this will be accomplished. “The Scottish Government is determined to keep working with the Scots-speaking community,” cabinet secretary Angus Robertson responded. Mrs Dowey added:
Scots is of real importance to people in Ayrshire, especially given the Burns connection, and it’s really concerning to see it placed on a list of vulnerable languages. With only around 27 per cent of Scotland’s population still speaking our native tongue, we need action from the Scottish Government and quick.