Commentary on Provisions Part 1: Gaelic Chapter 1: Support for the Gaelic language Section 7: Functions of relevant public authorities
41.Section 7 of the Act inserts three new sections into the 2005 Act.
42.Inserted section 2D requires a relevant public authority to have regard to promoting, facilitating and supporting the use of the Gaelic language, and developing and encouraging Gaelic culture, in exercising its functions. “Gaelic language” and “Gaelic culture” are defined in section 10 of the 2005 Act.
43.Inserted section 2E gives the Scottish Ministers a power to give guidance to relevant public authorities relating to their duties under inserted section 2D. In preparing the guidance, the Scottish Ministers must have regard to the principle that the Gaelic and English languages should be accorded equal respect. The Scottish Ministers must consult interested parties and publish the results of that consultation.
44.Inserted section 2F gives the Scottish Ministers a power to give directions to relevant public authorities. The power in section 2F could be used, for example, to direct a relevant public authority to include Gaelic language in its branding or signage. The Scottish Ministers must consult with a relevant public authority before giving a direction to that authority.