Seanchas Sgibnis | Celebrating Seachdain na Gàidhlig

On 28th February 2025, CHARTS took part in Seachdain na Gàidhlig / World Gaelic Week with an engaging event, Seanchas Sgibnis, celebrating the Gaelic heritage of Skipness and its surrounding woods. Led by Gaelic Culture Officer Àdhamh Ó Broin, alongside Dónal Mac Giolla Chomhgaill and Kintyre Rainforest Alliance. The afternoon brought together Gaelic speakers, learners, and community members to explore the deep connections between language, landscape, and culture.

The event fostered multigenerational connections, engaging with local school children, adults, and long-time residents of Skipness. Many attendees highlighted the positive blend of language, culture, and environmental discussions, with some expressing a desire for more events like this in the future. The success of Seanchas Sgibnis emphasised the value of using Gaelic to engage with both the local environment and the broader themes of climate resilience:

The event began with participants gathering to walk through Skipness Woods. During the walk, attendees learned about the unique Kintyre Gaelic dialect. This immersive experience offered a glimpse into how the land and sea have influenced the region's language and cultural heritage.

Following the walk, participants retired to the Village Hall for discussion on Gaelic demographics between 1881 and 1921 as well as local Gaelic stories and environment -focussed lore over tea and coffee.  They also heard from descendants of the last fluent Gaelic speakers in the area, with a special talk on the importance of Skipness Rainforests by the Kintyre Rainforest Alliance. The day concluded with informal conversation, live music from Féis an Tairbeirt, and creative reflection through art materials provided.