An interim chair has been chosen by the board members of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the Gaelic development agency, to replace Matthew MacIver CBE who stepped down last week.

Arthur Cormack has been unanimously selected by colleagues on the Board to fill the Chair’s post until a permanent successor is appointed. This will be done by a formal process ensuring a full, fair and open competition in line with the Office for the Commissioner for Public Appointments in Scotland (OCPAS) Code of Practice for Ministerial appointments.

A Deputy Chair will be chosen by the Bòrd at its next meeting in August.

Bòrd Interim Chair, Arthur Cormack said:

“I am delighted to take on the position of Interim Chair of Bòrd na Gàidhlig. Firstly, I would like to thank Matthew MacIver, on behalf of the Bòrd, for all of his hard work for Gaelic and we wish him well in his new position at UHI.

“Secondly, it is important to make clear that the work of the Bòrd continues in progressing the objectives of the National Plan for Gaelic. I am committed to ensuring stability and business continuity within the Bòrd over the months ahead while OCPAS goes through the process of appointing a new Chair.”

Minister for Culture Linda Fabiani said:

“I welcome the Bòrd’s move to agree Arthur Cormack as Interim Chair. Arthur is very well respected in the Gaelic community and beyond and he has my full support to lead Bòrd na Gàidhlig until a permanent Ministerial appointment is made. 

“I am sure that Arthur will provide strong leadership for the Bòrd and he rightly has high expectations for this organisation which is integral to delivering support for the Gaelic community. The Scottish Government has ambitious plans for the language and we will continue our drive to ensuring a successful and sustainable future for Gaelic.”