Research into the role of the Gaelic language and culture in the development of the Highlands and Islands is to be undertaken in order to establish the potential for further integration of language development and socio-economic development.

Marsaili MacLeod, a PhD student at the University of Aberdeen, is conducting the study, which is being funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) in collaboration with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

HIE has recently invested in the creation of Ionad Nàiseanta na h-Imrich (Centre for Migration Studies), a joint venture between HIE, Aberdeen University and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in Skye, through which the agency has commissioned a three-year PhD entitled 'The Role of Gaelic Language and Culture in Promoting Socio-economic Development'.

The study will explore contemporary links between Gaelic and factors such as identity, self-confidence, social cohesion, innovation and entrepreneurship - all recognised as key factors in the long-term economic development and sustainability of the Highlands and Islands.

The enterprise agency is today (25/2) staging a seminar on the role of the language in the long-term social and economic development of the Highlands and Islands, at which Marsaili will outline her proposed research aims and objectives.

Professor Mike Danson of the University of Paisley and Dr Douglas Chalmers of Glasgow Caledonian University, specialists in economics and economic development, will also present at the seminar to be held at the Bòrd na Gàidhlig offices in Inverness.

Alasdair MacLeod, culture and youth development manager at HIE, said: "We see this as a potentially significant piece of research for both the socio-economic and linguistic development of the region. There is currently a real sense of cultural vibrancy about the Highlands and Islands, which we hope to build on to ensure a sustainable and secure future for the cultural and linguistic traditions of the area."

Bòrd na Gàidhlig chief executive, Allan Campbell said: "It has been long recognised that the kinds of personal or community motivations required to revitalise economic activity or language are so similar as to be inseparable.

"HIE and other bodies have been important supporters of this philosophy, and Bòrd na Gàidhlig certainly recognises the significance of this linkage in its approach to language planning. The Bòrd will welcome all new input on integrated economic, social and linguistic development, and we are happy to be able to host this seminar today with HIE."