News > 2008

BBC ALBA launching on 19 September

MG ALBA and the BBC have announced the name and launch date for the Gaelic digital service.



The new service, BBC ALBA, will launch on 19 September 2008 at 9pm.
Alasdair Morrison, the Chairman of MG ALBA, and Ken MacQuarrie, Controller of BBC Scotland, welcomed the news.

Mr Morrison said, “The launch of BBC ALBA is a wonderful milestone for broadcasting. The most important priority for MG ALBA is that viewers and listeners receive high quality television, radio and online services, and I’m delighted that we are establishing this new service through the historic collaboration between MG ALBA and the BBC.”

Ken MacQuarrie said, “The launch of a new channel is always an exciting time for any broadcaster and I'm delighted that the partnership between BBC and MG ALBA has resulted in this happening right here in Scotland. The launch next month of BBC ALBA is the realisation of a long held ambition of the Gaelic community and an achievement for those who worked so hard to bring it about. BBC ALBA will offer a new and enhanced service to the Gaelic audience and will also reach out to the wider Scottish audience by offering a range of attractive and compelling programmes."

Commenting on the new service, Donald Campbell, MG ALBA’s Chief Executive, said, “The launch date for BBC ALBA is fast approaching and it won’t be long now before viewers in Scotland have the opportunity to see new Gaelic programmes every day. On the first night we’ll see a new drama starring Greg Hemphill as Elvis and a live concert from the Isle of Skye featuring some of Scotland’s best musical talent, and over the coming months we’ll be broadcasting a wide range of sport, news, children’s programmes, documentaries and entertainment to appeal to young and old alike.”