Comunn Eachdraidh Uibhist a Tuath (North Uist Historical Society) has received £165,000 to enable them to begin the redevelopment of the former Carinish School into a vibrant Community Hub showcasing their precious collection of artefacts, many of which are currently held in storage. Cnoc Soilleir in South Uist has received £200,000 to support the construction of an auditorium for Gaelic lectures and music events.

Speaking on the funding award, Cllr Paul Steele, Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said:

“This injection of funding is hugely welcome and will support the promotion of Gaelic and Heritage in Uist. As the area with the highest percentage of Gaelic speakers it is important that the Western Isles receives funding such as this to promote, develop and safeguard the use of the language within our communities. Both these projects will offer important opportunities for visitors and local residents to engage with Gaelic and learn more about the history of the area. I would like to congratulate all involed for their work in securing this funding and taking both projects to this stage.”

Cllr Uisdean Robertson, Comunn Eachdraidh Uibhist a Tuath said:

“I am delighted with the announcement of Scottish Government funding which will greatly assist the Communn Eachdraidh’s aims to help sustain the Gaelic language and preserve and promote the rich heritage, history, culture, and traditions of North Uist. Like the whole of North Uist, the Carinish district is steeped in history and tradition. The site of the former school overlooks Trinity Temple, a seminary and college of learning built in the 12th century. Also, in proximity is the site of the Battle of Carinish fought in 1601 between the MacDonalds and the MacLeods. We hold copyright to one of the most famous Gàidhlig poems An Eala Bhan written by Dòmhnall Ruadh Chorùna(Donald MacDonald) during the Battle of the Somme. He was a former pupil of the school, and it was sung at the Thiepval Memorial Service on July 1st,2016 in front of a worldwide audience by Julie Fowlis another former pupil of Carinish School.”