News > 2008

COLA-DEUG! - The 14-day countdown to BBC ALBA begins

The countdown to BBC ALBA, the new Gaelic digital service, begins tomorrow (Friday, September 5).

The channel will start broadcasting on Friday September 19 with a major outdoor broadcast of a concert from the Isle of Skye and a new drama.

The launch of the channel will be a major milestone in Scottish broadcasting and is the result of years of campaigning by the Gaelic community.

BBC ALBA is a partnership between the BBC and MG ALBA.

Today, MG ALBA chairman Alasdair Morrison and Fiona Mackenzie, BBC ALBA’s leading announcer, signalled the beginning of the countdown to the channel going live.

Fiona Mackenzie said: “The countdown to the launch is a tremendously exciting time for us all at the channel. We can’t wait for launch day and are delighted that it is now within touching distance.”

Alasdair Morrison added: “Every Gael knows the significance of the phrase Cola-Deug and this is one of the most significant fortnights in the Gaelic community for generations.

“Between now and September 19 the message will be loud and clear about the new channel – it’s coming, be part of it.

“We firmly believe that the channel will deliver a very high quality service in terms of content and will be something that will make us all proud.”

Ken MacQuarrie, Controller of BBC Scotland said: "I know that everyone at BBC ALBA is looking forward to offering a new and enhanced service both to the Gaels and the wider Scottish audience. We are confident that Scotland will respond positively to the range of attractive new programmes."