Embracing our cultural diversities

As I take up my new position with Tha Boord I am excited by the prospect  of being involved with the resurgence of Ulster-Scots culture.

Over the past few years there has been a tremendous re-awakening in interest of our heritage and history. Most people of the Ulster-Scots community and many others have always recognised the richness and diversity of the culture, but it is only in recent years that a co-ordinated and cohesive attempt has been made to ensure that this culture has received the official recognition it not only deserves but is entitled to.

There is clearly a great movement taking place before our very eyes as Ulster-Scots reclaim their culture and their language. The number of Ulster-Scots groups or associations springing up is a visible testimony to this. We owe a tremendous debt to those who down the years played a vital role in maintaining the culture and the language of the Ulster-Scots.

The language has probably experienced the most difficulty in terms of unjustified criticism as to its value from a number of people including some who really should know better. The reality is that Ullans is a recognised minority language and must be given the necessary resources for its growth and development in the Ulster-Scots community.

It is fair to say that I am not (yet) proficient in the language, but I look forward to becoming fluent and I hope that in some way I will mirror the development of the language and act as a conduit and an encourager for many like myself who recognise this part of their heritage and wish to learn more about it.

It is a privilege to have the opportunity to play my part in this great movement as chief executive of Tha Boord of Ulster-Scotch. I am confident that with the evident enthusiasm and ability of many workers in this field that we can make a tremendous impact and I look forward to being part of that team.

George Patton,

Chief Executive,

Ulster-Scots Agency

(Tha Boord of Ulster-Scotch)