Top singer to head Bòrd na Gàidhlig

AN AWARD-winning singer from Skye has been appointed deputy chairman of a board that promotes Gaelic.

Arthur Cormack will help run Bòrd na Gàidhlig (BnG), following Matthew MacIver's decision to step down as chairman.

Mr MacIver has tendered his resignation to take up a professorship at the University of the Highlands and Islands Millennium Institute.

Culture Minister Linda Fabiani said: “Matthew MacIver has devoted real effort and energy to Bòrd na Gàidhlig in its early years of operation. I commend the contribution he has made to building a strong and successful future for Gaelic in Scotland and wish him success in his new post.”

She added: “As testament to the importance this government places on the promotion of Gaelic, I have appointed Arthur Cormack.

“He has been instrumental in driving forward change and leadership at Bòrd na Gàidhlig and I am confident he will provide strong direction and continuity.”

The organisation is now starting the process of electing an interim chairman.

Mr Cormack, one of the finest Gaelic singers of his generation, was just 18 when he won the gold medal at the National Mod in 1983.

He runs the Macmeanmna record label and is chief executive of the youth tuition festivals organisation, Feis-ean nan Gaidheal.