Mission Statement

The aim of the Ulster-Scots Agency is to promote the study, conservation, development and use of Ulster-Scots as a living language; to encourage and develop the full range of its attendant culture; and to promote an understanding of the history of the Ulster-Scots.

Background

The implementation body for language, to be known as the North/South language Body, was established under and in furtherance of Article 2 of the British Irish Agreement.

The Body has two separate parts; Irish Language and Ulster-Scots.

In carrying out its functions in relation to Ullans and Ulster-Scots cultural issues the Body may, having regard to the contexts in both jurisdictions:

a) Provide advice for both administrations, public bodies and other groups in the private and voluntary sectors;

b) Undertake research and promotional campaigns; and

c) Undertake support of projects and grant-aid bodies and groups as necessary; but this does not exclude Ulster-Scots bodies and groups operating exclusively in Northern Ireland from accessing Northern Ireland Government funding programmes.

The Body will have a Board of 24 members appointed by NSMC. Of those members-

d) 16 will be drawn from among persons appearing to NSMC to have interest in, or experience of, matters relating to the functions of the Body in relation to Irish language and

e) 8 will be drawn from among persons appearing to NSMC to have an interest in, or experience of, matters relating to functions of the Body in relation to Ullans and Ulster-Scots cultural issues.

The Chairperson of the Irish language agency and the Chairperson of the Ulster-Scots agency will be joint Chairpersons of the Body.

The Joint Chairpersons, the Board and the Chief Executives understand the desirability of exploring joint projects, in terms of promoting language, culture, and in sharing administrative and technological projects. The experience will be in the interests of effectiveness and efficiency and will keep with the spirit of the legislation and the Belfast Agreement.