An insider’s view of the Ulster-Scots

by Joanne Crockard

Donegal man Jim Devenney has steered the Ulster-Scots Agency as acting chairman since the resignation of Lord Laird of Artigarvan in April 2004.

  Jim has been a Board member since its inception and has represented the Agency at many events and meetings in Northern Ireland and the Republic.

  In many ways seen as the voice of Ulster-Scots in East Donegal, we ask Jim about his thoughts as to changes he has seen over the last six years as it draws near to the end of his appointment..

What do you think was the Agency’s greatest achievement?
  “I think that the Agency has done a tremendous job of raising the profile and creating a greater awareness of Ulster-Scots as a living language and culture.  It has also developed a strong network of support and created sustainability throughout Ulster and beyond for stakeholders and Ulster-Scots enthusiasts.”

What was the biggest personal highlight?
  “For me, to be given the opportunity to be part of this development feels like coming home after being an exile for many years.  And just to be there and see the excitement and enthusiasm was wonderful, particularly from the children participating in dance, the way they learnt the music and, more recently, the language.”

What have you gained as an Ulster-Scot from your time with the Agency?
  “The friendship and getting to know a vast number of people as well as the very positive support we received from the two sponsor departments come to mind.  But also the realisation that my language from my childhood is now firmly recognised among minority languages within the EU context.  To have been part of bringing autonomy to Ulster-Scots as a living language within the island of Ireland is indeed very historic and something I am very proud of.”

Do you believe that Ulster-Scots is now firmly “on the map”?
  “Absolutely!   Ulster-Scots is now written in stone and deeply embedded in the mindset of a vast number of people.  I could describe Ulster-Scots as an acorn seed recently planted which has firmly taken root.  The children of today and tomorrow will see Ulster-Scots identity grow into a great oak tree.
  “I earnestly hope that this priceless legacy will not suffer the same level of neglect into the future, but will be nourished and properly understood by everyone as part of the rich diverse history of these British Isles.”

For you, what is the essence of Ulster-Scots?
  “For me, it’s about my identity, knowing that I descend from a people of great influence, unbelievable achievers, strong in character, and people who have left an indelible mark worldwide in medicine, commerce, innovation, education, agriculture and much more.  To be part of something this big and exciting has been great.
  “So if you are out there at home or abroad, and in the words of a famous Irish song: ‘If your name is Timothy or Pat É.(McClean, McGregor or Scott)’ come and join this great revival. The crack is mighty, the fun is unbelievable and the friendship everlasting.  Don’t take my word for it.  Be part of it.  Do it today!”

How would you like to see Ulster-Scots language, culture and history developed over the next five years?
  “I note that you have identified three elements to this great rediscovery - language, history and culture.  Ulster-Scots culture, particularly piping and drumming, has been well established for many years. 
  “Ulster-Scots history in the main has been misunderstood.  I never learned the history of our ancestors from the 17th century, their coming to Ulster from Scotland, their influence and shaping of systems as we know them today, their emigration from Ulster and their influence wherever they went, particularly North American, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
  “My vision for the Ulster-Scots Agency includes the creation of two sub-committees, one under the director of language and education and one under the direction of the director of culture, involving education specialists, academics, native speakers and the key stakeholders from piping, dance, fiddle and drama groups, all networking back through the Agency.
  “Our history should be developed through the University of Ulster and made more amenable to everyone.  Our history needs to be properly documented and recorded and taught throughout the educational systems in Northern Ireland and the Republic. 
“I believe Ulster-Scots is at stage two of its development and the Agency is well-focused and ready to rise to the challenge and to take these to the next level.”