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."
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Notes to editors:
BBC ALBA will be available on Sky channel 168 and on Freesat channel 110.
BBC ALBA is expected to become available on cable in due course. Subject to review by the BBC Trust, BBC ALBA will become available on Freeview after digital switchover in 2010. For more information on accessing BBC ALBA visit our website: www.mglba.com.
MG ALBA and the BBC have established a partnership to deliver digital television, radio and online services in Gaelic. The BBC ALBA service will broadcast under a BBC licence. To find out more about how the partnership works visit www.mgalba.com.
MG ALBA is the operating name of Seirbheis nam Meadhanan Gàidhlig (Gaelic Media Service), which is funded by the Scottish Government and regulated by Ofcom. MG ALBA stands for Meadhanan Gàidhlig Alba, or Gaelic Media Scotland.
September 4, 2008.