win with ‘we are Ulster-Scots Agency (Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch) official publication SATURDAY NOVEMBER 23, 2019 vertigo’ - page 16 All set for Ulster-Scots Language Week

is ulster-scots the real star of channel veteran Scots language campaigner social media sensation Alistair Heather four hit sitcom derry girls? billy kay delivers lecture this Leid Week presents series on young ulster-scots read more on page 3 read more on page 13 read more on page 15 www.ulsterscotsagency.com 2 SATURDAY JANUARY 20 2018 SATURDAY JANUARY 20 2018

2 ♂ ♂ Saturday, November 23, 2019 www.ulsterscotsagency.com 2 SATURDAY JANUARY 20 2018 SATURDAY JANUARY 20 2018 222 wwwwwwwww..ulster.ulsterulsterscotsagencyscotsagency.com.com Fair faa ye A busy time for KirkSASATURDTURDnaAYAYJAJANUNUARARrrYY202020182018a SASATURDTURDAYAYJAJANUNUARARYY202020182018 Fair faa ye WelcoFaFame toirirthe Jafafanuaraya2018yeyeedition of the Ulster-Scot. ScAA buhobusysyoltitiofmemeDafofoncrreKiKirkrknanarrrraa The New Year has been quick to come round and the Leid Week events at UlsteWer Sclcootmes AgtoenthecyJaarnueardeyep2018in pledanitioninn ofg fothreBeUllfastestr-ScBuotrn. s WeWeekWeFairwhlcolco faameicme hyetowi to thllthisthlaee SpecialJaunJanunuchararon Editionyy20182018Janu ofedared Theityitioio22, Ulster-Scot,nnofcuofthlmintheeUlUl atwhichstesteinr-gr- SchasScinotot thbeen..e ThSce winter hoseason hasolbeen a ofbusy Dance BurnThputs eCo togetherNencwerYe tasarwi a hasthguidePhbe toilen Ulster-ScotchCuqunninick toghcoam Leidme, Al WeekroyunBa d/ inUlster-Scotsanand thd ethe periodScScfor thehohoSchomberg’olols ofof DaDancncee ThUlThLanguageesteeNeNer wScw YeotWeek,YesararAghashas whichencybebeen arenwilleququ debeicic eptakingkktointoco plcoplaceanmemenin fromrorogunun foNovemberddranBeanddlfaththst e25eBu torn s Kirknarara School glance...of Dance. UlsteNovemberr Orches 30.tra on January 27. More about this on pages UlWeUlstesteekrrwhScScototicshsAgAgwienllenlacycyunararcheededeonepepJainnuinplarplanany 22,ninningcugfofolminrrBeBeatlfalfainststgBuinBurnthrness KirThknare winterra hostedseasontheirhas annualbeen a busy 8, 9 and 10. period for the Schomberg’s WeWeBuWeekrnek haveswhwhCo puticicnchh togethererwiwitllllwilalathun una variedPhchchilononCu programmeJaJanninnunuararghyyam22, 22,of activities,cucuAllminylminBa atintoat inraiseinanggdinin thththeee HighlandTThheewiwinternterDanceseasonseasonCompetitionhashasbeenbeenaainbusybusy The Ulster-Scots Agency would like to congratulate dancer Kirknarra School of Dance. BuBuUlawarenessrnsternssrCoCoOrnc chncof erestheerttrt wiUlster-Scotswia thonthPhPhJanuililCuarCu language,ynninnnin27. ghghMo whichamamre,,abAl Alwillouyy BabeBat th intakinginisananond dplacepaththegee s OctoberperiodperiodThe Ulster-Scotsforfor, whichthetheSchomberg’Schomberg’attracted Agencys sisalmost delighted Ulster-Scots Leid Workshop - James Blackwood on his recent UK Alliance Teachers of ninetyKirknardancerra Schoolhosteds fromoftheirDance.Highlandannual UlUl8,aroundste9steanrrOr dOrthe10.chch country.esestrtraaon TheseonJaJanu nuwillarar includeyy27.27. Mo Motalksrere aboutababouou thettth thlanguageisisononpapa andgege ss Kirtoknar revealra School a packedof Dance.programme of Exploring our language. Ardhowen Dancinin theg –language,Associa opportunitiestes Certifi forca tepeoplein Hi ofgh allla agesnd toDa getnc ininvolvedg. DanceKirKirHighlandeventsknarknarschoolsrara tohostedDancehosted markall ourCompetitiontheirtheiracross inauguralannualannualNor inUlster-thern Theatre, Enniskillen, 8pm 8,Th8,99eananUlddst10.er10.-Scots Agency would like to congratulate dancer October, which attracted almost Jamewiths is thethe Hamelyfirst ma Tonguele Hi andghla findnd daout ncmoreer teaboutache what’sr in happening Ireland.HighlandHighlandScots LanguageDanceDanceCompetitionCompetition Week. inin ThJaThheremeeeUl Ulands stBlst erinerac-S -SScotland.kwococotstsodAgAgonenenhicycys worewocenululddt liUKlikeketoAltolicocoanngngceraraTetutuaclalatehetedarsdancofncerer OctoberninetyThroughoutdancer, which Northerns fromattracted HighlandIrelandalmost and Wednesday, November 27, 2019 Northern Ireland – well done James! Find out more about October, which attracted almost JaDaJamemencssinBlBlgacac–kwokwoAssocododiaononteshihiCessrertrecenicenficattteUKUKinAlHiAllilighananlacecendTeTeDaacachenchersinrsg.ofof TheninetyninetyDanceCountycompetitiondancerdancerschools Donegal,ssfromallfrompro peopleacrossvedHighlandHighland ofto Norallbe agesthera huge nand Ulster-Scots and Human Rights - Les thisDaJaonWemenc pawillsingeis gbeth–7. launchingeAsfisocrst maia teseveralles CeHirt ghimportantifilacandtedain newncHier resourcesghtelaacndhe Dator in helpncin peg.ople successDanceDanceIreland.backgroundsschoolsschoolswith topwillallall beHighlandacrossacross celebratingNorNorDancetherther then nliving Allamby, chair of NIHRC discusses the Darecognisencing – andAs understandsociates Ce thert Ulster-Scotsificate in Hi thatgh theyland seeDa andnc hearing. language of Ulster-Scots. There is a wide human rights of Ulster-Scots. Discover Northern Ireland – well done James! Find out more about judgesIreland.Ireland.flying in from Aberdeen to JaJaaroundmemessis isthemththee everyfifirstrst maday,malele includingHiHighghlala ndand newdada ncWheenncerertete oacac Wurdsheherrinin badge, Thechoicecompetition of activitiespro asved detailedto be below,a huge to Ulster-Scots Centre, Belfast, 10am. SchothNowhichmbisrtonerhe willgrnpaSo gebeIrcietel available7.anydha–dwe freeallve ofdory chargeneprJaodme touc thoses!tiveFin whoChd ou rihave,stt momas youre wiguessedabthout adjudicate.give everyoneWith thestiff opportunitycompetition, to embrace Northern Ireland – well done James! Find out more about Thesuccesscompetitionwith topproHighlandved to beDancea huge bothit,th aeir wheen‘Eve o ninwurdsg ofin Ulster-Scots.Ulster-Scots’ celebration and FUSE KirTheandknarcompetition engagera did withnotpro theletved Hamelythemselvesto be Tonguea huge in a Hands Across the Sea - Former Scots ththisisononpapagege7.7. successsuccessjudges flwithyingwithintoptopfromHighlandHighlandAberdeenDanceDanceto FMScbrhooambdcasertggoSoincietg doy hawnd a vestorrymprinoducthetivelocaChl arristeamas, readwith downadjudicate.rangeat oftheir ways.Withownstiffcompetitioncompetition,with Language Centre Director Michael It’s great that a number of local Councils, including Lisburn and manjudgesjudgesy offlflyingtheiryingininownfromfromprimarAberdeenAberdeeny, beginnertoto , Hance discusses latest developments both their ‘Evening of Ulster-Scots’ celebration and FUSE Kiradjudicate.knarra didWithnotstifflet themselvescompetition, all abScScCastlereagh;ouhohombtmbit eronergg paSoAntrimSogecietciet14.y andyhaha Newtownabbey;ddaaveveryryprprododuc ucMidtitive veUlster;ChChriri Derryststmasmas andwiwi thth noadjudicate.Monday,vice and NovemberWithseniorstiffdancer 25competition, 2019s winning with the mother tongue. Discover Kirdownknaratratheirdid notownletcompetitionthemselveswith AlsoboboFMStrabane;inththbrthththoaiseireir dcedand‘E‘Easitve veFermanaghiotningoninn,inyogggofofudo caUlandUlwnnsteste Omaghrear-r-adstScScorotmoot mhaves’s’reincece alsoleabthlebrbreou comeatloattiocaiothn nlonearanan boardeadd,FUSFUSre adEE medalsKirTracingknarraand thedidtrophies. Ulster-Scotsnot let themselves Imagination Ulster-Scots Centre, Belfast, 2pm. downdownmanyatatoftheirtheirownowncompetitionprimarcompetitiony, beginnerwithwith , impoFMFMalltort supportabanbrbrouoatoawotdcdc itUlster-Scotsrkasasonttofgogopathiningeegg14. UldoLanguagedostewnwnraaScst stWeekotororsmmCo andininmmth thweee unilooklolocacaty forwardllarNeareaeatw,, retoreorad adk One-Professorof the highlightsWesley Hutchinsonon the daony how building on this in the future. mannomanUlster-Scotsviceyyofofandtheirtheirsenior haveownown primarexpresseddancerprimary,y,sbeginnerbeginnerwinning themselves,, Oan baith sides o the Sheuch - Billy allAlsoabinoutht itisonedpaitiogen,14.you can read more about the for Kirknarra was their own dancer andallwhabatoutht eitneontwpaorgek14.can provide to you and your nonomedalsthroughviceviceandandand theirseniorseniortrophies. writing.dancerdancersswinningwinning Kay talks about the Scots leid in commAlAlimWesosopouni areininrtty anparticularlyththgristiswoouededrkp.ititioioof Yopleasedn,n,thuyoyoecauuUl ntocacaste rehavennadrrereSc adaadmo otnumbermomosreCorereab mmofababou highououunit ittt profilethtythoneeNepa twgeor4.k KasemedalsmedalsOneToweryofNicholson theandMuseum,andhighlightstrophies.trophies. winningLondonderry,on thethedaov y1pm.erall Scotland and Ulster. Discover Ulster- As alimimanparticipantswapodpoyswhrtrtanweanatttthwo wewofromerklconerk Scotland,oftwmeoforththyoekeUlcaurUl includingnstestefeprredrovScScbaideot ottheckss CotoScotsCoanyommmmd uLanguagehoanuniunipedtytyyothNeNe aturpioneetwtwororr kk trophOneOnefor KirofyofknarforthetheHighlandrahighlightshighlightswas theirandononowntheNationalthedancerdadayy Scots Centre, Belfast, 7pm. Billy Kay, former SLC Director Michael Hance and the award- sectionsKaseRamsay,y Nicholsonand Percy,also Fergusonwinningbringingthe andhomeov Hewitterall everanancoyodmmdnewhwhfiuniatatndsthtytheesogrnenemeoutwtwp.thororinYokkcagucaofncanprninprovreteovadreideidestmototoinreyoyothabuuisanouanedddtitityoyoioonurn.urpage 4. forforKirKirknarknarrarawawasstheirtheirownowndancerdancer winning Scots poet Stuart Paterson, who will be leading a masterclass theKaseKasetroph- Anovy yeralleveningNicholsonNicholsonfor HighlandKir ofknar poetrywinningwinningraandcup toNational launchthethefor ovbestov eralltheerall new Ulster-Scots Leid Workshop - New Hampshire - Alister McReynolds cocoAsmmmmalwauniuniystytywegrgrweououp.lcop. YomeYouuyocacaurnnrefereadedadbamomockrereanababdououhottpeititononthatpapagege4.4. Ulster-Scots Collectors’ Project. Exploring our language. on the life and work of a Scotch-Irish for Ulster-Scots writers on St Andrew’s Day, November 30. dancertrophsectionstrophyy.forforNotandHighlandHighlandtoalsobe outdone,bringingandandNationalNationalhomeKirknarra AsevAseralalyowawaneysysfiwewendswewesolcolcomememethyoinyogururoffefeinededtebabareckstckinananthddhoishoedpepeitththioatn.at Canada Room, QUB, 7pm. Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, 8pm. poet of Ulster-Scots. Dancersectionssectionsthe overallEmmaandandKiralsoalsoknarSpierbringingrabringingscupalsoforhomehomewonbestthe The Ulster-Scots language is part of who we are. Everyone in Discover Ulster-Scots Centre, Belfast, evevereryoyonenefifindsndssosomemeththininggofofininteterereststininththisisededititioion.n. Interthedancerovmediateerall. NotKirtocategorknarbe outdone,ra cupy. forKirbestknarra Ian CrNorthernozier Irelandis Ch iehasf Exsomeec Ulster-Scots,utive of the theUl onlyster problem-Scots isAg theyen cy theQuareoverall CrackKirknar - A wheenra cup ofor yarnsbest with Thursday, November 28, 2019 11am. ThedancerdancerDancerKir..knarNotEmmaNotratotoTrbeSpierbeoupeoutdone,outdone,s fialsonishedwonKirKirknarknarofftherara don’t know it when they see it. We want you to recognise your ability InterWilliemediate Hill andcategor Alistair y.Scott Ceilidh Band. Ulster-Scots Leid Workshop - Iainn Ulster-ScotsCrozier is andCh embraceief Exec it.uti Pleaseve of comethe alongUlst ander-S getco involved.ts Agency theirDancerDancerBallyclarecompetitionsEmmaEmma TownSpierSpier Hall,forssalso also7pm.the wonyearwonthetheat Exploring our language. Shune Far Prettier Than Shoes - A The Kirknarra Troupe finished off IaIannCrCrozioziererisisChChieieffExExececutiutiveveofofthetheUlUlststerer-S-ScocotstsAgAgenencycy theInterInterClanmediatemediateDavidsoncategorcategorChristmasy.y. com- Andrew Jackson Cottage, Carrickfergus, commented:celebration of“W Ulster-Scotse are ver ypoetryproud byof Dr their competitions for the year at Ian Crozier is Chief Executive of the Ulster-Scots Agency petitionTheTheA GaitherinKirKirknarknarin Belfastrara oTrTr Yarnsoupeoupewhere fi-fi nishedAnnished eveningcompetingoffoff of 10am. howFrankour Ferguson.dance team have continued the Clan Davidson Christmas com- fortheirtheirpoetrythecompetitionscompetitionsfi andrst timestorytelling.atforforthethethe Discoverageyearyearofatatfour Ulster-, commented:toLinenprogress. Hall“W Library,eFrareomvercompetitions Belfast,y proud 1pm.of to The Ulster-Scot petition in Belfast where competing how our dance team have continued The official newspaper for the Ulster-Scots Agency / KirthetheScotsknarClanClanra Centre,DaDadancervidsonvidson Raphoe,EllaChristmasChristmasHouston 7.30pm.com-com-came A Celebration of the Ulster-Scots commented:commented:dance displa“W“Weeys,arearetheververdanceyyproudproudtroupeofof for the first time at the age of four, to progress. From competitions to Tha BooTherd o Ulster-ScUlster-Scototch homepetitionpetitionwithininBelfastBelfastfirst placeswherewhereincompetingcompetingall of her Language - With the weans of howhowalwourSaturday,ouraydancedances keep Novemberteamteamthe haflhaagveve fl30,continuedyingcontinued 2019high for The official newspaper for the Ulster-Scots Agency / KirTuesday,knarra dancerNovemberElla 26,Houston 2019 came Newtownstewart Model Primary School.dance Bletherindisplays, anthe Scrievindance witroupe Stuart TheThe Ulster-ScotUlster-Scot dancesforforthethefifiandrsrstttimetimenot toatatthebetheoutdone,ageageofoffourfourone,, totoprogress.progress.Ulster-ScotsFrFromomherecompetitionscompetitionsin the Kingdomtoto of TheTha ofBooficirdaloneUlswsterpaper-Scotfochr the Ulster-Scots Agency / homeThe crosswith fi communityrst places inpedigreeall of her Newtownstewart Library, 2pm. alwayPatersons keep the - All-dayflag fl yingwritinghigh workshopfor The official newspaper for the Ulster-Scots Agency / ofKirKirourknarknarseniorraradancerdancerdancerEllaEllas,HoustonHoustonLucy John-camecame dancedanceMourdispladisplane andys,ys,thethearedancedancea fantastictroupetroupeasset to ThaThaBooBoordrdooUlsUlsterter-Sc-Scototchch homehomedancesof Ulster-Scotswithwithandfifirsrsnotttplacesplaces to- Professorbe outdone,ininallall Wesleyofofherherone alwUlster-Scotsalwayaywithsskeke award-winningepepthethehereflflagagin fltheflyingying ScotsKingdomhighhigh poetforfor Stuartof Main office: ston won both Highland and promote the best of Highland Dance dancesdancesofHutchinsonour seniorandand notchallengesnotdancertotobebes,outdone,outdone, Lucythe mythJohn- onethatone Shune Far Prettier Than Shoes - A Ulster-ScotsMourUlster-ScotsAne Paterson.andherearehere DiscoveraininfantasticthetheKingdomKingdom Ulster-Scotsassetofofto The Ulster-Scots Agency, NationalUlster-ScotsOverall is onlytrophies for Protestants.in her celebration of Ulster-Scots poetry by andCentre,Ulster-Scots. Belfast, 10.30am to 5.00pm. Main office: ofstonofourourwonseniorseniorbothdancerdancerHighlands,s,LucyLucyandJohn-John- MourMourpromoteneneandandthearearebestaafantasticoffantasticHighlandassetassetDancetoto The Corn Exchange groups.DiscoverAll Ulster-Scotsof the Kirknar Centre,ra compet Belfast,- Dr Frank Ferguson. Ranfurly House, “KirLunchknar included.ra hosts tuition classes MaiThenUlofstfierce-Sc: ots Agency, stonNationalstonwonwonOverallbothbothHighlandHighlandtrophiesandandin her promoteandpromoteUlster-Scots.thethebestbestofofHighlandHighlandDanceDance MainMain office:office: 11am. Dungannon, 7.30pm. 31 GorThedonCorStren Exchet ange itorgroups.Nationals broughtAllOverallofhomethetrophiesKirmedals,knarrain competherwith - and“KirinknarUlster-Scots.Reiverra hostss Housetuitionin classesKilkeel every TheTheThe Ulster-ScotsUlUlststerer-Sc-ScotsotsAgAgencenc Agency,y,y, National Overall trophies in her and Ulster-Scots.Ulster-Scots Lunchtime Recital - Belfa31st BTGor1don2LGStreet someitors broughteven bringinghome medals,back cupswithand in ReiverThursdas Housey and inFridaKilkyeeleveningevery and TheThThee CornCorCornnEExch Exchange,xchangangee groups.groups.ExploringAllAllof ofthethethe ScotsKirKirknarknar Languageraracompetcompet Award-- - Ulster-Scots Leid Workshop - “Kir“KirknarknarPerformancerarahostshosts tuitionoftuition poetryclassesclasses & music. TelephonBelfae:st(0BT28)1 2LG9023 1113 trophiessome evtoenaddbringingto thebackcollection.cups and Thurnesdaw facesy and Frareidamorey eveningthanandwelcome 3131GorGordondonStreStreetet itoritorDiscussionssbroughtbrought / homeworkshophomemedals,medals, for educators.withwith Exploring our language. ininReiverReiverLisburnssHouseHouse MuseumininKilkKilkeeleelevevereryy 31 Gordon Street, Astrophieswell astocompetitions,add to the collection.Kirknarra newtofacescomearealongmore. than welcome EmaBeil:TeBelfaleinfolfaphonstst@ulsBTBTe:11te(02LG2LGrs28)cotsag902ency3 1113.org.uk somesomeDiscoverevevenen Ulster-Scotsbringingbringingbackback Centre,cupscupsand andBelfast, Andrew Jackson Cottage, ThurThursdasdayyandandFrFridaidayyeveveningeningandand Belfast BT1 2LG As well as competitions, Kirknarra TeTeEmalelephonphonil: infoe:e:@uls(0(028)28)ters902902cotsag3311131113ency.org.uk hastrophiestrophies2pm.beentotoinaddadddemandtotothetheovcollection.collection.er the winter Carrickfergus, 10am. nenetowwcome“KirfacesWeans’facesknaralongareare raWurdsmore.wouldmore - thaCraftthaalsonn weworkshopweliklcomelcomee to record using InTelephone:ternEmaEmaatioil:il:nainfoinfol cal@uls@ulsler (028)testersdiallrscotsagcotsag ing9023encythencye .orUls 1113.org.g.terukuk-Scots Agency: seasonAsAshaswewebeenllllasperforasincompetitions,competitions,demandming atovmanerKirKirtheyknarknarlocalwinterrara are excited toto“KircomecometheirknarUlster-Scotsraalongthanksalongwould.. tolanguage.alsothelikUlster-Scotse to record EuEmail:ropeInte-rn00 [email protected] cal902lers3diall1113ing the Ulster-Scots Agency: evhashasseasonUlster-Scotsentsbeenbeenincludingperforinindemanddemand mingLeidthe WorkshopatovSchombergovmanererthethey local winter-winter Exploring to Friday,be perfor Novemberming at 29,Schomberg’are 2019exciteds “Kir“KirtheirAgencyknarknarDiscoverthanksrarawouldwouldforto Ulster-ScotstheirthealsoalsoUlster-Scotscontinuedliklikeeto toCentre,recordrecordsuppor t AustraInInEuteliteroarnrnpe-atioatio00- na00na11ll44calcal44ler28ler28ss902dialldiall90233inging11131113ththeeUlsUlsterter-Sco-ScotstsAgeAgencncy:y: Society’seasonseasonevourents language.sincludingperforperforEveningming mingGlenellytheofatatUlster-ScotsSchombergmanman Room,yylocallocal Strabane toannualbeTheperfor history,Burmingns Nightheritageat Schomberg’celebrationsareare andexcitedexcited languages theirtheirAgencywithRaphoe,thanksthanksforourtheirtotuitionto 10amthethecontinuedUlster-Scots Ulster-Scots&classes. 2pm. suppor” t USInternationalAEuAuEu- 011rorostrapepeli44-a-0000-280044449023112828 callers4490290211132833902311131113 dialling1113 the CelebrationevevSociety’Councilentsentsincludingincludings Offices,EveningConcerthethe of2pm.tSchombergUlster-ScotsSchombergand also at var- toannualtoinbebeofFeperfor perforbrtheBuruar Ulster-Scotsnsmingmingy, asNightatweatSchomberg’celebrationsSchomberg’ll as - Talkother by sDeirdrelocals AgencyAgencywithFoourr moreforfortuitiontheirtheirinforclasses.continuedcontinuedmation,” supporpleasesupporttcon- Ulster-ScotsAuUSAustrastraA -lili011aa--000044111128 Agency:44449023282890231113902311131113 iousSociety’Society’CelebrationeventsssEveningEveningduringConcerofofFusefmtUlster-ScotsUlster-Scotsand alsoMourat var-ne’s annualinannualBurFeSpeer-White.nsbruarBurBurcelebrationsy,nsnsasNightNightwe Towerllcelebrationsascelebrationsand Museum,otherupcominglocal withwithFortactmoreourWillieourReivertuitiontuitioninfor Drennanmation,sclasses.classes.House & hisplease””on Hillbilly07753con- Band222 - A quare night’s crack. 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LookingLooking Ulster-ScotsUlster-Scotsevevents.ents. 553553ororfifindndthemthemononFaFacebookcebookatat USAWillia – m011St re44et, 28Rap 9023hoe 1113 Co DoneThTheeUlgalUlstester-Scotr-ScotssAgAgencencyy aheadaheadtoto2018,2018,thetheDanceDanceTeTeamam AAspokspokesperespersonsonfromfromKirKirknarknarrara KirKirknarknarraraSchoolSchoolofofDance.Dance. Co Donegal TelephonWilliaWilliae:mm+3StStre53reet,et,7RapRap491hoehoe7 3876 RegionalTelephone: office+353 7 491in Raphoe:7 3876 EmaCoil:[email protected] CLICK ON THIS... TheTeTeEmalele Ulster-Scotsphonphonil: freee:e:+3na+3@ul5353ste77491491rs cotAgency77sag387387en66cy.org.uk CLICK ON THIS... WilliamEmail: free Street,na@ulste Raphoerscotsagency.org.uk EditorEma: Garil: freey [email protected] CLICKCLICK ONON THIS...THIS... CoEd Donegal,itor: Gary McDon F93ald N5EK WORD Associate Editor: Catriona Holmes For details of what’s on check out our events calendar - WORD Telephone:EdEdAssitoritorocia::GarGarte yEditoryMcDonMcDon +353: Caaldaldtrio 7 4917na Holm 3876es For details of what’s on check out our events calendar - ProduPctiorodun:ctioThen: TheIrishIrNeishwsNews wwwwww.ulste.ulstersrscotsagency.y.com/com/eveventsents WOWOOFOFTHTHERDRDISSUEE ISSUE Email:AssAssociaocia [email protected]::CaCatriotrionanaHoHolmlmeses FoForrdetaildetailssofofwhat’what’ssononcheckcheckoutoutouroureveventsentscalcalendaendarr-- PrintingPPrintrodu: Iningctiote:rpInn:reteThessrpreNIIrssishLiNImitedNeLiwsmited wwwwww.ulste.ulstersrscotsacotsagencgency.y.com/com/eveventsents OF THE ISSUE Production: The Irish News FoForrUlUlster-Scoster-Scots news -- OF THE ISSUE PrintPrintinging::InInteterprpreressssNINILiLimitedmited wwwwww.ulster.ulsterscotsagency.y.com/com/nenewsws ThToe UlTh keepstee Ulr-Scotste upr-Scotne toxtne eddatextitioedn:itio withSatun: Saturda therday, Marc y,latestMarch 24,h 24,news20182018 and FoForrUlUlster-Scoster-Scotstsnenewsws-- events visit www.ulsterscotsagency.com wwwwww.ulster.ulsterscotsascotsagencgency.y.com/com/nenewsws DeadThThDeadlineeeUlUlfolinestester r-Scotcopr-Scotfory:copMoneney:xtndaxtMoedednday,itioitioMarchn:y,n:MarchSatuSatu5,rdarda20185,y,y,2018MarcMarchh24,24,20182018 ToTosigsignn upup forfor the Ulster-Sster-ScotscotsE-E-NeNewsletwsletterter- - deScrievedeededlele ContrDeadCoibutntrorlineibuts shoulorfosr copshould notey:dMonotethndaatthy,puatMarchblicapublicatio5, n2018tioofn anyof any visitvisitwwwwww.ulster.ulsterscotsagencyncy.com/ne.com/newsletter/wsletter/ Deadline for copy: Monday, March 5, 2018 ToTosigsignnupupforforthetheUlUlster-Sster-ScotscotsE-E-NeNewsletwsletterter-- submisubmitted ttedarticarleticisleatistheat theEditoEdir’stodir’sscretiodiscretion n subscribe/register your details and receive updates dedeededlele CoContrntributibutororssshoulshoulddnotenoteththatatpupublicablicatiotionnofofanyany subscribe/visitvisitwwwwww.ulster.ulsterregisterscotsagescotsageyour ncydetancy.com/ne.com/neils and wsletter/recewsletter/ive updates on the areas that you are most interested. submisubmittedttedararticticleleisisatatthetheEdiEditotor’r’ssdidiscretioscretionn onsubscribe/subscribe/the areasregisterregisterthat youyouryouraredetadetamostilsilsandandinteresterecereceiveived.updatesupdates MeMeaninang:ing: ononthethearareaseasthathattyouyouarearemostmostininteresteterested.d. MeMeananining:g: JoinJoinusus onon Facebook -- visivisittwwwww.w.facebofacebook.com/ok.com/ ToToTopr ocprwrite,eedoceed especiallyslowslowly ly UlsterScotsAgency now and like our page to keep up UlsterScotsJoinJoinususononFaFaAgececeboboncyokok-now-visivisitandtwwwww.likw.faceboefaceboour pagok.com/ok.com/e to keep up to date on what’s happening, upload your photos from ToToprprtooc ocwriteeedeed easilyslslowowlyly and tUlsterScotsUlsterScotso date on wAgeAgehat’ncyncys hapnownowpeniandandnglik,likupleeourouroadpagpagyoureetotophotoskekeepepupupfrom onona biacybiclcyeclore caorrcar Ulster-Scots events and share your comments. Ulsterttooddaatte-Sceoonotsnwwhhevaat’t’ensshaptshapandpenipenishngngare,,upluplyouroadoadyourcommenyourphotosphotosts. fromfrom ononaabibicycycopiouslyclcleeororcacarr UlsterUlster-Sc-Scotsotsevevenentstsandandshshareareyouryourcommencomments.ts. Saturday, November 23, 2019 ♂ ♂ 3

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 3 Is Ulster-Scots the real star of hit Channel Four show Derry Girls?

Derry Girls is one of the most successful television comedies to emerge from Northern Ireland in the last couple of years. Set during the Troubles in 1990s Londonderry it follows the often disgraceful antics of a group of teenage friends as they negotiate the complicated worlds of growing up, families and school. Balancing an acute awareness of the stresses of teenage friendship against the bleak backdrop of the conflict in Ulster, Derry Girls has charmed audiences with the strong performances of its ensemble cast and the sharp and brilliant writing of Lisa McGee. The show has already clocked up two very well-received seasons which have chronicled the lives of Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle and James and their families. One of the most refreshing aspects of the programme is the way in Derry Girls Mural, Orchard which the everyday speech of the Street, Londonderry city is employed in the programme. Despite the occasional confused viewer requesting subtitles, the with the vocabulary of Tarantino, the show is in fact Ulster-Scots. There’s There’s poor craiturs all over the urban phenomenon speaking from show is a celebration of the vibrancy, language is often earthy and to the the ubiquitous wee and weans and place and those that put their nebs the heart in one of the most popular creativity and potency of the local point, so perhaps not to everyone’s the Derry wan for one. Fired off in where they shouldn’t, hi. Mind, television programmes in the United tongue. One can find glossaries taste. But it also helps remind us of all their unselfconscious glory these there’s many that get foundered and Kingdom in the last two years. across the internet that provide how powerful the local register can words, as Seamus Heaney said, unfortunates who take cack-attacks! Dr Frank Ferguson is translations for the uninitiated. Pity be for saying exactly what is on our are: ‘‘irreducible, undislodgeable and While every phrase that’s used Distinguished Research Fellow the person who thinks that wee mind. undeniably true.’’ They help drive can’t be said to be derived from and Senior Lecturer in English; buns will follow the main course of And what is the best thing about what is at the heart of the great Ulster-Scots, the show highlights Research Director of English a Tayto cheese and onion sandwich Derry Girls? The writing? Cast? energy of the show. People dander, how integral and alive Ulster-Scots Language and Literature; and or a ‘Chicken Ball Special.’ As one Locations? Yes all of these are they santer, they houl things. They words and phrases are to the Director of the Centre for Irish might expect of a show that blends spot on. But what emerges as the hoke and deuk and slabber; and language of Derry Girls. It comes and Scottish Studies at Ulster the hormone fuelled teenage years strongest contender for star of the when things go bad may even boke. across very well as a vital, living University. A Gaitherin O Yarns set to take Human Rights Chief place in Donegal for Leid Week to give Language Week Lecture When speaking to someone unionism and Protestantism are from the East Donegal, evidenced by poems such as ‘The The programme for Ulster-Scots engagement between the Ulster- especially the area known Brunswick Clubs’ and ‘Progress of Language Week will include a Scots community and the NI Human as the Laggan, you might be the Reformation’. Sarah’s ‘weaver lecture and discussion on Ulster- Rights Commission. forgiven for thinking that they poetry’ is genuinely impressive Scots and Human Rights, with ‘‘For too many years, the Ulster- are actually from some part of and unfortunately undervalued. Les Allamby, Chief Commissioner Scots community has been wary County Down or Antrim, such is Frances Browne was the of the Northern Ireland Human of human rights, thinking of it as the richness of the Ulster-Scots daughter of the village postmaster Rights Commission. something for other people, even language spoken there. who lost her sight at aged only 18 Agency CEO Ian Crozier said: though Ulster-Scots people have As the Ulster-Scots have months as a result of smallpox. ‘‘Ulster-Scots people and the always been to the forefront of continued to live in a tightly-knit Despite this, and the lack of Ulster-Scots language have a range advances around human dignity. community, there was little need a formal education, Frances of protections which flow from ‘‘That has to change. We need to to change their manner of speech developed a great love of learning international treaties agreed by the embrace human rights and build and so it has continued to the and began to write poems and UK government, however it can capacity within our communities to present day. short stories. In addition to often appear that these can be of address cultural issues from a rights The speech of the Laggan was a number of books, Frances limited use or that they are of less perspective.’’ captured in the writings of poets contributed to periodicals including value than the rights and protections Les Allamby is due to serve as like Sarah Leech and Frances Chambers’ Edinburgh Journal and that other minorities enjoy. Chief Commissioner of NIHRC until Browne of Stranorlar. The Athenaeum. ‘‘This session with the Chief August 31, 2021. Les is a solicitor The daughter of a linen weaver, The Ulster-Scots language is still Commissioner of NIHRC is and formerly the Director of the Law Sarah Leech was born near spoken widely in East Donegal important because it will help the Centre (Northern Ireland). Raphoe, County Donegal, and is and there is a growing interest Ulster-Scots community to better He was appointed honorary one of the few published women Bronze Statue of among local people to recognise understand how the human rights Professor of Law at the University writers in the Ulster-Scots tradition Frances Browne in their linguistic heritage, with an system relates to us and how we of Ulster in 2014 and he was of that era. Stranorlar evening of Ulster-Scots poetry and might better use it to strengthen the a trustee of the Community Beyond the biographical account storytelling, entitled A Gaitherin o position of Ulster-Scots. Foundation for Northern Ireland contained in her only published Subjects (1828), very little more Yarns, set to take place in the East ‘‘We also hope that rather than be from 2009-2018. collection, Poems on Various is known about her. Her staunch Donegal Discover Ulster-Scots a one off, we will be able to work The event is due to take place with Les and his colleagues to on Tuesday, November 26 in the develop a meaningful, long-term Discover Ulster-Scots Centre. 4 ♂ ♂ Saturday, November 23, 2019

4 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Launch of the Ulster-Scots Collectors Project announced

lster-Scots Language Week John and Roberta Hewitt will see the launch of a Unew digital Ulster-Scots Collectors Project, which has been developed as a partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University and the Ulster-Scots Agency to build an online collection of Ulster- Scots and Scottish literary and linguistic materials based on the collections of four significant Ulster-based collectors: Thomas Percy, Samuel Ferguson, Andrew Gibson, and John Hewitt.

The project has been led by Dr Frank Ferguson of Ulster University, who said: ‘‘These collectors represent 300 years of significant interaction between Ulster and Scottish literature, culture, heritage and book history. ‘‘Each individual enjoyed an international reputation as a critic and collector of vernacular literature and all played a major role in developing our understanding of poetry, song and literary heritage. ‘‘They were pioneers in their fields who changed the way in which we view Irish and Scottish literature today and it is exciting to see their work and influence celebrated collectively for the first time. Living in Ulster inspired them as thinkers, writers and individuals, and in particular the impact of the province’s cultural interaction with Scotland worked deeply into their professional and personal lives.’’

Celebrating

The project celebrates their work through a major digitisation, outreach and development programme that highlights the Ulster-Scots poetic tradition and its impact upon Scottish, English and Irish literary traditions. It will provide access to a number of previously-unavailable resources; help to build academic and public/ community interest in the topic; provide opportunities for universities, schools and the public to participate in Ulster-Scots literature, culture and Ramsay was also responsible for as Anglican Bishop of Dromore and introduction to the world of Ulster- transcribe some of the poetry for heritage; and give opportunities for publishing the work of one of the first supported a wide range of Ulster- Scots writing. The project has themselves to be placed online students to gain appreciation of and important Ulster-Scots poets William Scots poets and writers and it is very digitised his poetry manuscripts and and offer their own poetry or prose work experience in the sector. Starrat. exciting to be able to acknowledge MA dissertation. These works are a pieces in response. his influence and impact on the work storehouse of personal reflection, At present this is open to all Allan Ramsay Thomas Percy of Ulster-Scots traditions. scholarship and information on students in the English subject at Ulster language, literature and Ulster University and constitutes The project website, which will Secondly Thomas Percy’s Reliques Samuel Ferguson cultural heritage. As with Ferguson, potentially the largest project team go live during Language Week, of Ancient English Poetry. The Hewitt can be argued to be one of assembled by the University for a contains a treasure trove of project reproduces the four different The third collector is Samuel the most significant Ulster-Scots literary project. This will be rolled materials. Firstly, there is a selection versions of this anthology which Ferguson, and the collection of his writers of his century. out shortly to the public to allow of Scots poet Allan Ramsay’s first were produced through Percy’s works which are preserved at Ulster deeper engagement with the works and second edition collections of lifetime. University have been digitised. Engagement on display and to assist in the poetry compiled by Belfast-based This is one of the most important Ferguson ranks as one of the most continuation of the appreciation of collector Andrew Gibson. collections of British ballads ever significant poets in Ireland in the The provision of the digitised the work of the collectors and This small, but world class collection produced and proved the main text 19th century and his Ulster-Scots materials does not mark the finish Ulster-Scots traditions. of arguably the second most in its field well into the 19th century. background and interests can be of the project. The materials will important Scottish poet of the It inspired the work of F.J. Childs traced through many of his works. provide a means to allow students Those interested in getting a 18th century, is one of the major in the USA and assisted in the and the public to engage with the sneak preview of the materials collections of Ramsay’s work. exploration of ballad and song in John Hewitt writing in a number of ways. should have a look at Hurchin A considerable instigator of the Britain, Ireland and the USA. Percy The website will provide a way in Home @HurchinHome revival of Scots vernacular poetry, spent many years in County Down The fourth John Hewitt, needs no which individuals or groups can on Twitter. Saturday, November 23, 2019 ♂ ♂ 5

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 5

Guests at the recent launch of the new Ulster-Scots Language Project; below, centre: Alex Stevenson and James Vernor; bottom: Fusefm Mourne Radio Presenter Joshua Morris

New Ulster-Scots language project for Kingdom of Mourne The Schomberg Society, Kilkeel recently launched an ambitious new project, ‘Ulster-Scots...An Everyday Language We All Use!’

eivers House in Kilkeel future generations, the rich Ulster- was packed to capacity Scots oral tradition amongst our Rrecently with a huge crowd fishing and farming communities of representatives from various in Mourne. We are very pleased groups, schools, organisations to be working with many schools and statutory bodies from and groups from right across the right across the community to community, who are all very keen celebrate the launch of the new to contribute to this exciting new project. project and learn more about the The project aims to capture and customs, traditions and folklore that preserve Ulster-Scots words have been associated with fishing and phrases, poetry, song and and farming for many generations. traditions associated with the fishing The Society is very grateful for the and farming communities in the support for this project provided by National Lottery players that we can This event will create an opportunity Ulster-Scots groups, statutory Mournes. As part of the project, the the National Lottery Heritage Fund support heritage projects that are to welcome everyone from within bodies and agencies and also other Schomberg Society will be working and we look forward to working with important to local communities.’’ the community to come along folk who are passionate about the with many schools, community them closely throughout the life of Over the course of the next year, and discuss, plan and map out language to come along and help groups and individuals within the the project.’’ the Schomberg Society aims to the way forward for the Ulster- us put together a plan for helping local community to help gather as Jim McGreevy, Member of The compile all of the research gathered Scots Language in the Kingdom of promote and maintain the use of much information as possible on the National Lottery Heritage Fund by volunteers from within the Mourne. the Ulster-Scots tongue here in the use of the Ulster-Scots language NI Committee added: ‘‘We were community to produce educational The Discussion Night will welcome Kingdom of Mourne.’’ and traditions within these specific delighted to support this local project resources, including booklets, a panel of local Ulster-Scots The Kingdom of Mourne is known communities. As part of the project which is going to explore the rich children’s workbooks, an exhibition Language enthusiasts from as an Ulster-Scots Heartland, outreach, the Schomberg Society Ulster-Scots cultural heritage of the and oral recordings, all of which will Mourne who will discuss with the where the Ulster-Scots language will be working closely with both the Mournes. The project will create an also be widely distributed and also audience how to continue ensuring is used on a day and daily basis by Ulster-Scots Agency and the Ulster- archive of material and resources made available to access online. the Language is preserved and everyone within the local community. Scots Community Network, who will that everyone can access and use. As part of the project and to coincide promoted for generations to come. The Schomberg Society would be providing expert guidance and The project will also explore the with Ulster-Scots Language Week, A spokesperson from the welcome all Ulster-Scots support. strong maritime and agricultural the Schomberg Society will be Schomberg Society commented: Language enthusiasts to attend A spokesperson from the heritage of the area. We wish the hosting an Ulster-Scots Language ‘‘We are looking forward to our and participate in the Discussion Schomberg Society commented: team well as they embark on their Discussion Night on Monday, Ulster-Scots Language Discussion Night and for further information, ‘‘This project creates an excellent project and look forward to seeing November 25 2019 at 7.30pm in Night in Kilkeel, where we will be please contact the Schomberg opportunity to help preserve for what they uncover. It is thanks to Reivers House, Kilkeel. inviting representatives from various Society on 07753222553. 6 ♂ ♂ Saturday, November 23, 2019

6 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Ten of the most damaging myths about the Ulster-Scots language

ost people in Northern a sister language to English and Ireland respect cultural many words have a shared origin. Mdiversity and have respect It is just like French and Spanish. for Ulster-Scots identity, heritage For example, the French word for and language. country is pays, which in Spanish is Sadly, a minority of people do not pais. No-one would claim Spanish is respect Ulster-Scots and can often just bad French, even though 75 per be quite vocal about it. cent of their words are very similar The myths that they spread can be because of their shared roots in very damaging, because they cause Latin. people to be embarrassed or fearful 7. ‘‘It’s closely related to Irish’’ about embracing, enjoying and Some commentators wrongly claim sharing Ulster-Scots. Ulster-Scots is closely related to Irish. In fact, Ulster-Scots and 1. ‘It doesn’t exist’ Irish are members of two entirely It has often been claimed Ulster- separate language families. Scots just doesn’t exist. This Irish is part of the Celtic language simply isn’t true. The language was family with Scots Gaelic, Welsh, established in Ulster in the early Cornish and Manx. Ulster-Scots 1600s with the arrival of Lowland is part of the Germanic language Scottish settlers and has been family with Scots, English, German, here ever since, featuring in printed Dutch and Flemish. Like other prose and poetry for around 300 languages that share a geographical years. The earliest known Ulster- space, words have been loaned/ Scots poet was William Starrat of borrowed between Ulster-Scots Strabane, first published in 1722. and Irish, the most famous example The last census in 2011 recorded being the word crack, which has that there were around 140,000 become an iconic Irish word even Ulster-Scots speakers in Northern though it is actually Ulster-Scots. Ireland. 8. ‘‘It’s just talking with a 2. ‘It’s sectarian’ Ballymena accent’’ Ulster-Scots was once infamously Talking a language isn’t about described as a ‘‘DIY language Ian Knox Cartoon, Irish News, 23.11.11 how you sound, it is about for Orangemen.’’ The truth is our using the words and speech language is used right across the patterns. Someone from Belfast community in Northern Ireland and sounds different to someone everyone has a wee bit of Ulster- from Ballymena, Ballyhalbert, Scots. The famous poet Seamus Londonderry or even East Donegal; Heaney, who came from Bellaghy, but they could all be speaking wrote: ‘‘From the start, Burns’ birl Ulster-Scots. A Ballymena accent and rhythm, the tongue the Ulster- doesn’t sound any different whether Scots brought with them and stick to the person is speaking in English still in County Antrim was in my ear. or Ulster-Scots. It is the words and It westered in from east of Bann on how they are used that makes the the Derry air.’’ difference. 3. ‘‘It’s political’’ It has been claimed that Ulster- 9. ‘‘It’s how country people talk’’ Scots is political, in part because Many people, even within the Ulster-Scots was recognised within Ulster-Scots community, think the Belfast Agreement of 1998. An Ulster-Scots is only used in rural Irish News columnist even wrote: communities. This couldn’t be further ‘‘Ulster Scots was invented by Britain from the truth. A lot of Ulster-Scots is during the Good Friday Agreement used in urban settings, but it is often negotiations to give unionists wriggle dismissed as slang or bad English. room on Sinn Fein’s promotion Words like youse or yousens; of Irish and to claim the Troubles windaes; and shap (shop) are all represented a row between two good Ulster-Scots words. Channel cultures in which Britain was a non- Four actually issued a guide to help partisan peacemaker’’ (11.08.12). people understand the speech on This is complete nonsense. Ulster- the hit tv series Derry Girls, and Scots was well-known in Northern most of the words in it are Ulster- Ireland up until the 1960s. The onset Scots! of the Troubles pushed communities 10. ‘‘It’s how stupid people talk’’ apart and led to a much greater It has often been said or suggested focus on religious (Catholic/ that people who use Ulster-Scots Protestant) and national (British/ are stupid. Irish) identity. Ulster-Scots didn’t Ian Knox Cartoon, Irish News, 18.06.08 A columnist in the Irish News once disappear during the Troubles, but wrote that: ‘‘Ulster-Scots is just recognition in the Belfast Agreement someone adopting the accent and kick started a long overdue process modest support from government, is is simply a regional variety of a one of six main dialects (regional limited vocabulary of an uneducated of cultural restoration. entitled to have its rights respected language. Whether something is varieties) of the Scots language. person from Co Antrim or north Co 4. ‘‘It’s all about taking money and its needs met. Lobbying to described as a language or dialect 6. ‘‘It’s just bad English’’ Down’’ (19.07.07). Ulster-Scots is away from Irish’’ achieve fair treatment is not an is much more to do with politics and Ulster-Scots is often dismissed as virtually identical to Ayrshire Scots, It is sometimes claimed that the attack on anyone else’s identity and power than it is with linguistics. Most bad English. the language of Robert Burns, Ulster-Scots movement only exists certainly hasn’t led to any reduction of the critics don’t really understand The close proximity of some recognised as one of the world’s as a spoiler to take money away in government support for Irish. the terms and when they call Ulster- Ulster-Scots words to English greatest poets. It has been used from the Irish language movement. 5. ‘‘It’s a dialect, not a language’’ Scots a dialect they are really trying words, like coul/cold; houl/hold; toul/ by generations of great writers, That simply isn’t true. The Ulster- People often claim that Ulster-Scots to run it down and say it is just ‘bad told; or boul/bold is often used to including C.S. Lewis, who was also a Scots community, which receives is a dialect, not a language. A dialect English.’ Ulster-Scots is actually justify this, but it is wrong. Scots is professor at Oxford University. Saturday, November 23, 2019 ♂ ♂ 7

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 7 Ulster-Scots in my classroom

Jackie Morrison, retired Principal (Personal Development and Mutual of Balnamore Primary School, Understanding). Children could learn Ballymoney about their own history, culture, language and everything that this hen I was growing up a entailed. young pig was a “toorie” My concern was that with the Wand did not become a passing of each generation more of “piglet” until I went to school. the language was being lost and I I couldn’t understand the problem had a chance to do something about which teachers had with words that. There were no books on the or phrases which I used and the subject and I had to be resourceful. endless correction was tedious. This sometimes involved inviting However, like most people, I quickly members of the local community to learned that in order to progress in come into the school to talk about life there was no place in school for their experiences in life. how I spoke at home. Bringing Ulster-Scots into the The reality was that many teachers classroom was not an addition to the seemed to relish in humiliating those requirements of the curriculum but children who spoke “broad” and the was a vehicle through which many fear of further derision was sufficient subjects could be brought together. to quell anyone from relaxing The children discussed poetry, and lapsing into “the vernacular”. rhyme and rhythm, onomatopoeia, Consequently, though I didn’t realise assonance and phonics to name it at the time, I developed the ability but a few. Literacy work led to to communicate in different ways opportunities for the children to depending on my audience. perform publically at concerts, on But I continued to be intrigued by radio and television. As a result, words used by my parents – for children developed positive self- example on taking out the ashes esteem and were confident to talk to set the fire my father would have about their culture and language. commented on the presence of Currently schools have greater “greeshoch” (glowing embers). I leverage in tailoring the curriculum remember asking him where that content to suit the needs of word came from and being told their pupils. Article 29 of the UN “that’s jist what we wur aye towl it Convention on the Rights of the wuz”. Words had obviously been Child states that one of the goals inherited, handed down from Jackie Morrison of education must be to encourage generation to generation. children to respect their own culture I progressed through the education and that of others. I only wish that system, ending up in Queen’s career eventually brought me to my aim needed to be safeguarding pupils from “other schools”. It was this had been in place at the outset University, where I was astounded Balnamore Primary School. By this the existing remnants of spoken very seldom that any meaningful of my career as I’d have spent less to hear a lecturer mention “Ulster- stage I’d resolved to do some writing Ulster-Scots in the school. I use interactions occurred between the time justifying to educationalists why Scots”. He highlighted on a map in Ulster-Scots so that language the word “remnants” because children unless sanctions were I was teaching Ulster-Scots and why the areas where this might be might be memorialised in written nothing appeared to have imposed by teachers. they should be doing it too. spoken and stated that it was linked form. However, “the best laid plans o significantly changed in the delivery This was later developed into On reflection, would I take on the to the movement of people many mice an men gang aft agley”, for the of education. Or had it? Through the New Curriculum which system again to promote Ulster- years ago to Ireland from Scotland. job came with promotion and there EMU funding (Education for Mutual brought the opportunity I needed Scots in the classroom? Absolutely, Acknowledgement at last! was no time to write for pleasure. Understanding) children across the to introduce Ulster-Scots into for naen o iz shud forget tha boul we I trained to be a teacher and my Soon it became obvious to me that province were taken on trips with the classroom through PDMU wur bakit in. Model Weans set for Leid Week

On Thursday, November 28, 2019 Although several schools in West at 2pm, as part of Ulster-Scots Tyrone have been engaged with Leid Week, Newtownstewart the Agency, Newtownstewart Model Model Primary School will visit went a step further. Participating Newtownstewart Library for a in the Agency’s ‘East – West ‘Celebration of Ulster-Scots Twinning Programme’, the school Language’ which will include was twinned with Minigaff Primary music, poetry, song and dance. School in Newtownstewart, Dumfries The school has been actively & Galloway. After a lengthy period engaged with the Ulster Scots of correspondence between both Agency for many years and has schools, some of the staff and pupils shown an interest in the language from Newtownstewart Model went in particular. On one occasion, across to their Scottish counterparts Newtownstewart Model hosted an for a two-day visit where they were Ulster-Scots poetry competition able to develop their understanding organised by Derry & Raphoe of Scots and compare it to the Action that attracted pupils from Ulster-Scots spoken in West Tyrone. five primary schools in West Tyrone. It is to their credit that they made This successful competition quickly the same trip a year later and that became an annual event in the area they maintain contact with Minigaff and proved immensely popular with Primary today. the school. Adopting a Burns theme, The pupils are looking forward to the pupils enthusiastically embraced enjoying the Celebration of Ulster- School children taking part in an the language of so many from that Scots Language in their local library Ulster-Scots language workshop area. during Ulster-Scots Leid Week. 8 ♂ ♂ Saturday, November 23, 2019

8 www.ulsterscotsagency .com New Ulster-Scots society at Queen’s Group set up in response to demand from university students

he promotion of Ulster- at home here in Northern Ireland Scots at our universities and exploring our shared heritage is Thas taken a step forward a way to achieve that,’’ she added. with the establishment of a new Welcoming the development, Ulster-Scots Society at Queen’s Ulster-Scots Agency Chief Executive University in Belfast. Ian Crozier said: ‘‘It is hugely The new group has been set up in encouraging that so many students response to demand from students at QUB want to engage with their who want to see their cultural Ulster-Scots cultural identity and we identity respected, valued and look forward to helping them do that. promoted within the university. We hope the new Society will also Mollie Liggett, the group’s Chair, be embraced by the university, as it who hails from Portadown and has marks an important development in long associations with Ulster-Scots establishing greater cultural diversity and the marching band community, in the life of Queen’s.’’ said: ‘‘There are a lot of students at The new Society is busy developing Queen’s who have an Ulster-Scots plans for the year ahead, which cultural identity and Ulster-Scots will start with activity in relation to people have played a huge role in Ulster-Scots Language Week, when the life of the university since it was they will support the launch of the set up, so it seemed obvious we new Ulster-Scots Collectors Project, should set up a student society that which is set to take place at Queen’s could explore that heritage and give on November 25. The project all of us an opportunity to enjoy our has digitised a range of Ulster- cultural traditions. Scots literary materials, including ‘‘We also want to help others to significant collections of Scots and understand the cultural identity of Ulster-Scots material held in QUB. the Ulster-Scots people, whether Queen’s University was effectively they come from Northern Ireland founded as a university for Ulster or further afield. There is a great Presbyterians, who led the institution Ulster-Scots diaspora around the for many years. Indeed, the world and students from many of Students’ Union was founded by those countries come to study at Thomas Sinclair, an Ulster-Scot and Queen’s. We want to help them feel author of the Ulster Covenant. Agency’s place names guide for Belfast

Ulster-Scots Language Week will ‘‘During the course of developing the see the launch of a new pocket pocket guide, we picked up several guide to Ulster-Scots place new place names that we hadn’t names in Belfast, which has been come across before, mostly in west developed by the Ulster-Scots Belfast. Agency with funding from Belfast ‘‘These included the Pound Burn, City Council. near Divis Street, the Mary Burn, Ulster-Scots Agency Chief near Milltown cemetery and the Executive, Ian Crozier, said: ‘‘200 Clowney Water, a name given to years ago, Belfast was described part of the Forth River, which is itself as a town where the people spoke also Ulster-Scots. broad Scotch. ‘‘We understand that this project is ‘‘That legacy lives on today, not only the start. It will take a lot more only in the words and phrases that work to develop a comprehensive Belfast people use, but also in the record of all the Ulster-Scots place names we have for places all over names in the city and find creative the city. There are more than 150 ways to mark them.’’ streets in Belfast that have Ulster- Belfast City Council Language Scots in their name, as well as many Officer Michael Johnston said: that used to be known by an Ulster- ‘‘The place names of Belfast are a Scots name, not to mention all sorts really good way for us to understand of geographical features. the linguistic diversity of the city. ‘‘This publication is intended to help There are numerous place names of people understand the language English, Irish and Scottish origin and and see that it is all around them understanding these can help us to every day. understand the people and events ‘‘Ulster-Scots place names are not which have shaped the place where confined to any one area, they can we live. be found throughout Belfast. ‘‘Belfast City Council is delighted to ‘‘It is easy to see the Ulster-Scots have supported the development which is on the street name signs, of the pocket guide to Ulster-Scots what is harder is capturing the Place Names and we know it will names which aren’t on modern make an important contribution to maps and maybe only live on in the promoting respect for and between memories of older people. minority languages in the city.’’ Saturday, November 23, 2019 ♂ ♂ 9

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 9

New ‘wee’ booklet is looking to New Ulster-Scots society at Queen’s introduce Ulster-Scots language to a wider audience

Knowledge and understanding written Ulster-Scots in the form of of Ulster-Scots is set to receive well-known words, frequently used a boost with the production of phrases which could be heard a new introductory booklet – A anywhere in Ulster Wee Guide to the Ulster-Scots Discussing the project, Ulster- Language – which is being Scots Agency Chief Executive Ian published by the Ulster-Scots Crozier said: Agency to coincide with the ‘‘The Wee Guide will be very first ever Ulster-Scots Language important going forward because Week. its contents will underpin all of our language learning activities. Assuming no existing knowledge, ‘‘It has been designed to provide the booklet introduces the Scots an easy point of access for people language, explains how it came to to start thinking about Ulster- Ulster and places it in the context Scots, whether they are born and of the three main cultural identities bred here, a new arrival or even a here, English, Irish and Scots, tourist. which have combined to give ‘‘It will also support our new Wheen Ulster a cultural landscape which is o Wurds badge initiative, which unique in the British Isles. will encourage people around the It also explains the literary legacy country to embrace the Ulster- of Ulster-Scots from Robert Burns Scots language. and the weaver poets to CS Lewis subsequent establishment of ‘‘We want everyone here to be and Seamus Heaney; and explores the Ulster-Scots Agency; and proud of Ulster-Scots and the the huge footprint of Ulster-Scots recognition by the UK government contribution that it makes and can place names that can be found all under the European Charter of make to cultural diversity. over Ulster. Regional or Minority Languages. ‘‘But most importantly,’’ Ian The guide also explains how This has given rise to a higher level concluded, ‘‘we want everyone Ulster-Scots is now enjoying a of awareness within academia and to know that no matter where we greater level of awareness and greater interest from the media, come from or what community governmental support due to which has also been supported by we belong to, we all have a level a community-led revival in the the establishment of the Ulster- of ability in Ulster-Scots that we early 1990s, recognition in the Scots Broadcast Fund. should recognise, value and build Queen’s University, Belfast Belfast Agreement of 1998 and The reader is then introduced to on.’’

The bridge at Minnowburn, South Belfast 10 ♂ ♂ Saturday, November 23, 2019

10 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Small Steps to ensure place names are not lost

Residents in North Belfast are set later been Anglicised or replaced to be consulted about how they altogether with something of English would like to see Ulster-Scots or Irish origin. place names recognised within ‘‘For example, Gray’s Loanen their areas as part of Ulster-Scots became Gray’s Lane, while Buttle’s Language Week. Loanen became Clifton Street and Small Steps, which runs an Ulster- the Point Loanen became Nelson Scots Community Impact Project Street. covering North and West Belfast, ‘‘The name Buttermilk Loaney was would like to see the area’s rich used for two different roads, which collection of Ulster-Scots names became Bilston Road and Skegoniel marked in some way and are Avenue. We want to ensure these planning to go door-to-door to find names, which are not marked out how local people feel about it. anywhere, are not lost to future Ulster-Scots Project Officer Jennifer generations, and everyone will be Ulster-Scots Project Officer Crockard said: ‘‘There are loads of able to recognise and appreciate Jennifer Crockard places in our area with an Ulster- the Ulster-Scots place names in our Scots name, including estates like area.’’ Brae Hill, Forthriver and Glencairn. Ulster-Scots Agency Language in an urban area like North Belfast. of vocabulary and more importantly, We would love to see schools and ‘‘There are also lots of examples of Officer Gary Blair commented: ‘‘It is ‘‘Place names are an important way to understand that Ulster-Scots communities all over the country streets that used to be known by really encouraging to see such an for people to relate to the Ulster- has been part of the fabric of their getting into place names and we an Ulster-Scots name, but that has interest in Ulster-Scots place names Scots language, to pick up a wee bit community for hundreds of years. would be happy to help.’’

Belfast – The way of speaking is much more Film to spread Scotch than Irish the word The Ulster-Scots Community Network has been involved in By Nelson McCausland Chevalier de la Tocnaye toured (Ballyclare) traditional Ulster-Scots. representing the Ulster-Scots Ireland at the end of the 18th ‘The Scottish idiom is mostly Despite these negative forces, the community in the delivery of a Many people think of Ulster-Scots century, he visited Belfast. An observable in the baronies of Ards Ulster-Scots language can still be new Communications and New as a language that is spoken in account of his travels were and Castlereagh, although extending found in Belfast and there is hope for Communities project. some country areas of Ulster. published in 1797, where he said: as far as Hillsborough and Dromore. the future. The Belfast Agreement During the filming of a new video, They do not think it has any ‘‘Belfast has almost entirely the look Until recently it was spoken as of 1998 emphasised the importance which is expected to be launched relevance to Belfast but they are of a Scotch town and the character broadly as in Ayr or Wigtownshire.’ of respect, understanding and early in 2020, the Network very wrong. Belfast was once an of the inhabitants has considerable (County Down). tolerance in relation to languages provided the chance for various Ulster-Scots-speaking town and the resemblance to that of the people Ulster-Scots was freely spoken and recognised Ulster-Scots as ‘part aspects of Ulster-Scots cultural way Belfast folk speak, even today, of Glasgow. The way of speaking is throughout Belfast and it was the of the cultural wealth of the island of expression in Belfast to be filmed. is still influenced by Ulster-Scots. much more Scotch than Irish.’’ principal language of Belfast for Ireland.’ Ulster-Scots is recognised Ulster-Scots Education and Most people in Belfast hear The Ordnance Survey more than 200 hundred years, and protected under the European Outreach Officer Matthew bits of Ulster-Scots Memoirs in the 1830’s but the use of Ulster-Scots was Charter for Minority Languages, in Warwick provided information, spoken every day but recorded Scots in many gradually eroded during the 19th common with Scots. guidance and pointers as to they fail to recognise it. areas surrounding and 20th centuries. The Ulster-Scots Agency promotes how the film-makers could best They are more likely Belfast as well: This was partly due to families that the language, heritage and engage with the Ulster-Scots to hear it and then ‘Their dialect, accent, moved into Belfast losing connection culture of Ulster-Scots people and community, and the crew visited dismiss it as bad idioms and customs with kith and kin in the country also supports the voluntary and the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre English. During the are strictly Scottish.’ over the generations. The erosion community sector to promote the several times to film events, 19th century Belfast (Mallusk). was quite rapid in the latter half language. It also works with other as well as talking with native expanded rapidly. ‘In their habits and of the 20th century, largely due to organisations such as Northern speakers about how important In just 40 years, the character, the people, the influence of schools and the Ireland Screen to promote Ulster- the language is to them. population increased that is the natives of media. For many generations school Scots and increase the exposure of Matthew also spoke about the from 19,000 to 70,000 and the parish are essentially teachers discouraged the use of Ulster-Scots on both TV and radio fact the Ulster-Scots language this was largely the result of Scottish…. Their idioms and Ulster-Scots, it being corrected and with many great quality programmes is present in the day-to-day industrialisation. William Ritchie had saws are strictly Scottish and sometimes punished. That official in production screened into speech of everyone in Belfast, come over to Belfast from Scotland many of them are pithy and quaint.’ discouragement had a major impact. thousands of homes across Ulster. although often they may not in 1791 and established the first (Canmoney) At one time the media in Ulster The Agency runs educational know it. Explaining how Ulster- proper shipyard in Belfast Lough. ‘The inhabitants of this part reinforced awareness of Scots with programmes all year round and Scots words and phrases have There were also cotton mills, linen of Ireland are half Scotch in children, through publications such initiatives such as Ulster-Scots been passed down through the mills and other factories. Belfast their language and manners.’ as ‘Oor Wullie’ and ‘The Broons.’ Language Week will further raise generations is just one way this was expanding and many of these (Knockbreda) In the 1950s and 1960s many TV awareness and ensure that our film can show the Ulster-Scotch people spoke Ulster-Scots, whether ‘The language in use here is… programmes were Scottish. Those language has a bright future. leid is as much a part of the they be Scottish themselves or strangely tinctured with the Scottish are largely a thing of the past and cultural fabric of Belfast as any moving into Belfast for work from idiom and accent’ (Holywood) instead we have an overwhelming Nelson McCausland is the author other language. rural areas of Antrim and Down, ‘The general character of the people influence of Anglo-American of Scotch Town: Ulster-Scots David Gilliland is Operations bringing the Ulster-Scots language is strictly Scottish… their idioms television culture. Nowadays, young Language and Literature in Director for the Ulster-Scots they had spoken since childhood. and old saws saviour strongly on people are more likely to know Belfast, which is available from Community Network. When the French traveller, Le the country of their ancestors.’ the latest slang words rather than the Ulster-Scots Agency. Saturday, November 23, 2019 ♂ ♂ 11

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 11 Putting the Ulster-Scots language into a European framework

n May 2016, the Pôle Irlande Members of the core group on the steps research group hosted an of the Grand Amphi, Sorbonne Nouvelle Iinternational conference at the Sorbonne Nouvelle entitled: ‘‘Tipping the scales: Reversing decline in indigenous minority cultures in Europe.’’ The theme of the conference had emerged out of my own research on cultural traditions in Northern Ireland and in particular on Ulster-Scots. As everyone knows, Ulster-Scots has been the object of sustained denigration over the years. The result has been an at times high- profile campaign in the media to ridicule any manifestation of the culture. This has been successful in limiting academic interest in the Professor Wesley Hutchinson phenomenon and in alienating individuals within especially the Protestant middle-class, who cultures had in common, but also might otherwise have been more the areas where their circumstances sympathetic to Ulster-Scots. It differed, sometimes radically. It seemed important to address these quickly emerged that there was issues. great potential for further exploration In many ways, interest in Ulster- in a number of fields - the place Scots culture is merely a reflection of these minority languages in the of my personal history. With family education system, issues of visibility roots in Ulster-Scots areas of in public places, constitution of counties Antrim and Londonderry, digital archives, media involvement, and with extended family in the “Ulster-Scots has been the language planning, etc. – and Lowlands of Scotland, the Scottish that it would be a pity not to follow dimension was always present, object of sustained denigration up these discussions within the in the everyday speech, in the comparative frame that had been mindset and in the logic of family over the years. The result has put in place. connections. Interest in the Scottish The core group formed by those who influence in Ulster was quite natural been a high-profile campaign attended that opening conference and there seemed to be no good at the Sorbonne Nouvelle has reason why people should not be in the media to ridicule the therefore gone on to hold a number interested in exploring its place in of events and group discussions. the mosaic of cultures that has been culture.” – Wesley Hutchinson So far, we have organised a total a characteristic of the region since of four international conferences. the 17th century. Frank Ferguson (Ulster University) Furthermore, there seemed nothing in collaboration with the Ulster- particularly sinister or reprehensible world language – English or French such comparisons were made, on into different aspects of Scots, Scots Agency, organised a second about something that was – spoken by the overwhelming the obvious asymmetry made the Poitevin-Saintongeais and Occitan, conference in Belfast, entitled “The increasingly a common feature of majority, and a Celtic language latter appear all the poorer. The the University of Strasbourg, Next Step” (November 2016). This life all over Europe. Indeed, having – Irish or Breton – spoken by a vergonha (sense of shame, cultural in relation to Alsatian, and the was followed by a third conference lived in France for nearly 40 years, relatively small proportion of the cringe) that Lafont saw as one University of Katowice, in relation in Katowice, organised by Leszek when I went to visit my in-laws population in the region. Most of the characteristic features of to Silesian. These contributions Drong, “Minor Cultures in Dialogue” round Toulouse, or when I went on importantly, there was also a third any minority language community allowed us to place the debate (May 2017), and a fourth in Poitiers, holiday near Alicante, the regional player which, in both cases, was seemed even deeper the closer it in the north of Ireland within a “Promoting or demoting: the languages and cultures I was in particularly close to the dominant was to the dominant language. It broader, comparative perspective transmission of minority languages contact with – Occitan and Valencian language: Ulster-Scots in the appeared all the more important and to identify the similarities and from past to present,” organised – clearly had much less explosive northern counties of Ireland and to look at things within a different differences in the preoccupations by Stéphanie Noirard and Jean- relationships with the surrounding Gallo in the eastern parts of Brittany. frame and in an environment that and strategies of those who are Christophe Dourdet (April 2018). ‘dominant’ languages or with their It was the proximity of Ulster-Scots would be sensitive to the issues defending the interests of these As I write, a publication of papers regional alter egos than was the to English and of Gallo to French faced by these particular language minority cultures on the ground. presented at Poitiers is in its case for Ulster-Scots. Although that was clearly the key factor. communities. Indeed, it is clear that One of the primary objectives final stages of preparation. A fifth sporadically there might be tension Much work had been done on the - for whatever reasons - there is a behind the first conference was conference, organised by Pascale over this or that issue, there was relationship between French and hierarchy among minority languages to ensure that the debate that we Etchart - “Minority Languages: what nothing to compare with the vicious Breton and between English and and that the ones that interested us were trying to generate should actors for what future?” - will take trench warfare that characterised the Ulster Irish. However, whenever found themselves at the very bottom include people from outside the place at the Université of Strasbourg debate in Northern Ireland. analysis was extended to look at the of the pile. university. Academic work on in November 2019. Clearly, there was a need for a triangular relationship that existed In many ways, therefore, it was linguistics, literature and cultural It is hoped that the collaboration more dispassionate assessment of in the two areas, Ulster-Scots and the specificities of the positions studies would clearly benefit from that has been made possible within the strengths and weaknesses of Gallo appeared systematically as of Ulster-Scots and Gallo that exposure to people promoting the this network will continue in the the tradition. It seemed this could the weakest links. Whether in terms were to form the nucleus of the languages on the ground - not only coming years, giving the languages best be done by stepping outside of lexical range and grammatical first conference. However, it was activists, but also those working in concerned a broader perspective the immediate – sometimes toxic - characteristics or in terms of the decided that rather than limiting the public bodies such as the Conseil from which to assess their particular context in Ulster. wealth of the literatures that each exchanges to an Ireland-France, or régional de Bretagne or the Ulster- positions. It struck me that if anyone were language culture had produced, – rather - to an Ulster-Brittany frame, Scots Agency, whose function was By Wesley Hutchinson, Emeritus looking for a parallel with the there seemed to be no common more might be gained by opening to cater for the minority language Professor of Irish Studies situation of minority languages in measure between the situation of things up on to a broader canvas. communities concerned. (Sorbonne Nouvelle), author of this part of the world, a good place Irish and Breton on the one hand It was at this point that contact The conference was a great the recently published, Tracing to start would be Brittany. In each and that of Ulster-Scots and Gallo was made with the University of success, highlighting not only how the Ulster-Scots Imagination case there was the presence of a on the other. Indeed, when any Poitiers where work was going many features these language (Ulster University, 2018). 12 ♂ ♂ Saturday, November 23, 2019

12 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Don’t miss new Wheen o Wurds badge

As part of the first ever Ulster- even realising it. We want people to Scotch Leid Week/Ulster-Scots recognise how much Ulster-Scots Language Week, the they already know and to wear Ulster-Scots Agency the wee Wheen o Wurds is launching a new badge as a symbol of badge, called the pride, both in their Wheen o Wurds own ability and also badge, which in Ulster-Scots, an people can wear important part of our to show that they shared heritage. have some Ulster- ‘‘The Wheen o Wurds Scots. badge is a blue Ian Crozier (right), tartan speech bubble, The design for the new Wheen o Chief Executive at the designed to be worn Wurds badge (size not to scale) Ulster-Scots Agency on your lapel, classy and commented: “A big part of discreet so that it can be worn Ulster-Scots Language Week is in all sorts of settings, whether at reckon that will just be the tip of the more rigorous, because people language workshop delivered by to get the message out that most work, school or just when you’re out iceberg,” he added. actually have to demonstrate that the Ulster-Scots Agency or Ulster- people here, no matter where and about. We’ve had 2500 made The new Ulster-Scots badge is they understand the words. They Scots Community Network and just they are from or what community for Language Week, but as there based on a similar idea used by can complete a short online test on have to show they know at least 20 they belong to, have a wee bit of are more than 140,000 Ulster-Scots the Irish language community, the Ulster-Scots Agency website Ulster-Scots words out of a list of 30 Ulster-Scots, sometimes without speakers in Northern Ireland, we except the Ulster-Scots version is or else attend an Ulster-Scots – straightforward enough! Former Scots Discussion plan for schools Language Centre qualification in Ulster-Scots director to host event As part of Ulster-Scots Language In another development that shows come across the sheugh to talk to Week, the Ulster-Scots Agency how the Ulster-Scots and Scots us about the progress of the Scots will be hosting a workshop for language communities are working Language Centre and the Scots educationalists to learn about more closely together, former Scots language more generally; and give the Scots Language Award, a Language Centre director Michael us the latest news on the projects qualification which is delivered Hance will be in Belfast to give a talk that the SLC is currently running. by the Scottish Qualifications as part of Ulster-Scots Language ‘‘His talk will be of great interest Authority and consider whether Week. to anyone who is keen to see an and how it might be adapted for Michael stepped down as increased profile for Ulster- use by schools in Ulster to study Director of the SLC at the Scots.’’ Ulster-Scots. end of last year, after The SLC undertakes Ulster-Scots Agency Language 16 years at the helm, a wide range of Officer Gary Blair commented: but he is still with the projects to promote ‘‘At this event we want to put Centre, working on the Scots language, educators from Ulster, whether strategic projects, which has recently they are teachers, people from including raising been expanded CCEA, the Education Authority or awareness in the run with the launch of Department of Education, into a up to the next Census an excellent virtual room with their equivalents from in 2021. resource around Scots Scotland to help them understand Welcoming the language place names. how the Scots language is being development, Agency It can be accessed via delivered in schools across CEO Ian Crozier said: ‘‘Michael www.scotslanguage.com Scotland and the difference that it Hance has undertaken a huge The event will take place in the is making in the lives of weans, so amount of work to raise the profile of Discover Ulster-Scots Centre in that we can start a conversation Scots in Scotland over the course of Belfast on November 27 and include about how Ulster-Scots weans two decades. refreshments and the opportunity for can get access to a qualification in Marilyn Waters - Qualifications Manager for ‘‘We are delighted he has agreed to questions and discussion. their native tongue.’’ Languages at the Scottish Qualifications Authority A range of speakers will be attending from Scotland, including Marilyn Waters, the Qualifications Scots and develop their ability to to gain a deeper insight into A Wheen o Ulster-Scots Wurds Manager for Languages at the communicate in the language. Scotland’s history, people, and Scottish Qualifications Authority It also helps them to use the cultural heritage.’’ Everybody here knows a wee bit of Hallion: rascal Hoke: dig Jeuk: (SQA), who is responsible for the language creatively, and to think The session is taking place at Ulster-Scots, see how many of these avoid Mingin: dirty Neb: nose Oxter: development and maintenance about how language works within the Discover Ulster-Scots 30 words you know: armpit Poke: ice cream cone Quare: of the Scots Language Awards, a wider context. Centre in Belfast on Tuesday, Aye: yes/always Blether: idle chat considerable Redd up: tidy up launched in Scotland in 2014. “An important factor in the November 26. If you would like Boak: vomit Crabbit: grumpy Crack: Scunnered: disgusted/embarrassed Ms Waters told The Ulster-Scot: success of the awards is that to book a place, please contact banter/news Drooth: thirst/drunkard Skelf: splinter Slabber: loudmouth/ ‘‘The Scots Language Award whether or not students see Gary Blair on 02890 231113 or Eejit: idiot Flit: move Footery: saliva Sleekit: sly Teemin: pouring enables students to study the themselves as ‘native’ speakers, e-mail gblair@ulsterscotsagency. awkward Forbye: as well Foundered: Thran: stubborn Wean: child Wee: history and development of the awards also enable them org.uk. exhausted (with cold) Gulder: shout little Wheest: be quiet Saturday, November 23, 2019 ♂ ♂ 13

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 13 Date with Scots language pioneer Acclaimed author Billy Kay to give lecture as part of Leid Week

ne of the most important anglicising ‘improvers’ as much lectures of Ulster- as any place in Scotland, yet their OScots Leid Week will Scots is thrang with words you be delivered by the acclaimed rarely come across in Scotland.’’ author and veteran Scots Looking forward to Kay’s lecture, language campaigner Billy Kay. which will take place at the His book, ‘Scots: Tha Mither Discover Ulster-Scots Centre Tongue’, was a watershed in on the evening of November popular awareness of the Scots 27, Ulster-Scots Agency Chief language and he has spent a Executive Ian Crozier said: ‘‘Billy lifetime writing and broadcasting in Kay has had a long-term interest relation to the language and culture in Ulster-Scots and that interest of Scotland. He also authored a has been a source of inspiration to second seminal work on the Scots many of us, expressed as it was at diaspora, The Scottish World. a time when few others shared it. In his writing on the various dialects ‘‘We will be delighted to welcome of Scots, Billy Kay pays particular him to the Discover Ulster-Scots attention to Ulster-Scots, for which Centre to listen to his reflections he has a real admiration, reflecting on the growth and development of the doggedness of the people and the Scots language in recent times the purer form of Scots we have and his journey as a campaigner maintained. for cultural change, which will He quotes Rev John Graham of undoubtedly have parallels with Maghera, writing in the early 19th our own experience and hopefully century: ‘‘In reporting the language provide the opportunity for learning and customs peculiar to this Acclaimed author and veteran Scots that can be applied in the next neighbourhood, attention must be language campaigner Billy Kay stage of the campaign to promote paid to the usual division of the and develop Ulster-Scots.’’ inhabitants into English, Irish and For further information about Scotch. The dialect and customs of He observes that: ‘‘Since the Standard English and seeking in the world in more recent times, the event, contact the Ulster- these distinct races are as different days of the United Irishmen, the to create a division between the most remarkable feature of Scots Agency on 02890 231113, from each other as their respective pressures against Ulster-Scots themselves and ordinary people. the Ulster communities is their the Ulster-Scots Community creeds. The Dissenters speak have been similar to those against Notwithstanding this, he is happy retention of Scots in their everyday Network on 02890 436710, visit broad Scotch and are in the habit Scots in Scotland, with the dialects to report of Ulster-Scots: ‘‘Given speech. Many of these areas have www.ulsterscotsagency.org.uk of using terms and expressions there classified as ‘provincial the speed with which Scottish not had a fresh influx of Scots or check out the Ulster-Scotch long since obsolete, even in and barbaric’” and reflects on the colonists have divested themselves settlers for more than 300 years Leid Week postings on our Scotland.’’ professional classes adopting of their native tongues elsewhere and have been exposed to the Facebook page. Gibson: ‘An Inconvenient Truth’

Tha ither nicht A wus watchin baith ouler than tha English whas tha box, whun A cum acroass a Darren Gibson taakit tha day. In his forethocht til picture caa’d ‘An Inconvenient The New Testament in Braid Scots, Truth.’ Reverend Wye Smith scrievit, “Lat It wus scrievit bae tha former Vice nae man think it is a vulgar President o’ tha United States o’ tongue – a mere gibberish to be Amerika, Al Gore, til lairn fowk dune wi’ as sune as ane is bye the aboot global wairmin. Heth it wus schule-time. It is an ancient and yin o’ tha maist successful pictures honourable tongue; wi’ rutes deep o’ twa thoosan an seiven, takkin i’ the yird; aulder than muckle o’ the twa Academy awards, an tae this English. It cam doon till us throwe day is uisit til lairn weans aa owre oor Gothic and Pictish forebears; tha world. Stillanaw mair nor half it was heard on the battle-field tha fowk in Amerika disnae believe wi’ Bruce; it waftit the triumphant in global wairmin - A doubt thaurs prayers and sangs o’ the Martyrs aye fowk ye jist cannae lairn. Aiblins intil Heeven; it dirl’t on the tongue o’ it’s tae much boather, or mebbe jist John Knox, dencouncin wrang.” plain thranness, but thaur’s aye yins Thon’s pooerfu wurds. Bit dinnae A’ll no appen thaur mind tae tha tak it fae me, nor even tha guid truth, even an undeniable yin. Reverend. Luk fur yersel, wi ye ain Weel A’ll tell ye noo, A can een, at the clatter o rhymes, tha sympathise wi Mr. Gore fer wir ain muckle mountain o’ buiks an tha leid haes becum anither yin o’ thon wabsteids fu o oul scrievins. Aye inconvenient truths. Tha Ulster-Scots maun, wir leids oniethin but racent. fowk, alang wi thur cultur an leid Weel ma freens, gien ye hae read forbye, haes baen aroon fur mair this far, aiblins thaurs hope fur iz yet. nor fower hunner year. Yet accordin A’m dumfoonthered as tae hoo the reprentit in tha last wheen o’ yeirs. An if aa thon disnae convince ye, Tae next time, lang may yer lum reek tae a brave ween o weel lairnit fowk, hae niver cum acroass tha poems Even rinnin yer een owre tha internet surely ye cannae deny tha weel-kent an yer spicket dribble. tha Ulster-Scotch leid is a ‘recent o’ tha weaver poets, fun in aa tha wid tell ye aboot tha hairtsome buiks wurks o Rabbie Burns? Fur efter aa, Darren Gibson is an invention’. Ulster papers fae tha late seiventeen o Archibald McIlroy fae Ballyclare, oor ain hamely tongue is nithin mair Ulster-Scotch scriever, born an Hoo tha hae managed tae ignore tha hunners oan, or tha weel-kent wha scrievit ‘When Lint was in the nor lallan Scotch distilled oan Ulster raired doon tha Airds, in tha screeds o’ evidence tae tha contrary scrievens o’ W. G. Lyttle in tha Bell’ (1897) an ‘The Auld Meetin soil. Aa o iz shud mind, it maks no toonlan o Ballyfrenis, is owre ma heid. eichteen hunners, wha hae aa baen Hoose Green’ (1898). odds if its Lallans or Ulster, thaur nearhaun Millisle. 14 ♂ ♂ Saturday, November 23, 2019

14 www.ulsterscotsagency .com The story of Robert Dinsmoor: the rustic poet of New Hampshire

Robert Dinsmoor was born in ‘Though like a lord man o’er ye Irish settlement of Belfast, Maine. 1757, just two years before that rules, ‘Fare fa’ye Joe, my canty Ladd, other poet called Robert - Burns An’ bang ye round wi’ chairs an’ Nae feckless whim can mak’ thee of Alloway in Ayrshire. stools, sad; Dinsmoor’s grandfather, John An’ bruise ye wi’ the auld pot buils, Whan gear comes linkin’ in ye’re Dinsmoor, emigrated from Mind not their powers-- glad, Ballywattick near Ballymoney around Their bodies maun gang to the An’ blithe ye feel; 1723, not long after the 1718 exodus mools, Mair frien’s like you I wish I had, of the Rev. James McGregor who As weel as ours.’ Wi’ hearts as leal! led five ships of Presbyterians from Ilk dollar that ye sen’ awa’, the Bann Valley to New England. The wee poem also contains a May it return ere night wi’ twa, Shortly after he arrived in Maine, picture of life for the Scotch-Irish And peace an’ plenty, bless your ha’, John Dinsmoor was taken prisoner settlers: An’ a’ concerns; by Native American tribesmen, ‘He try’d to keep the corn frae bears, An’ nae misfortune e’er befa’ but to his credit, he formed a good An’ help’d us ay to sing our prayers’. Your wife an’ bairns. relationship, indeed friendship, At the age of 20, Robert married with the tribal chief, coincidentally Molly, his childhood sweetheart and Surely any one of us would be glad also called John, and the latter in the years that followed, as well to be the subject of such a toast? eventually allowed Dinsmoor to as serving in the military and a spell Frank Ferguson and I produced the escape his detention and make his as a schoolmaster, he remained a first edition of our edited, Robert way to the Scotch-Irish settlement farmer and a stout defender of the Dinsmoor’s Scotch-Irish Poems, a of Londonderry, New Hampshire. orthodox Presbyterianism of his few years back and happily it has Many of the town’s inhabitants were forefathers. now sold out. We are now working ‘Five Ships’ survivors and knew John Alister McReynolds A favourite poem by Dinsmoor was on a second edition which we hope well and the proprietors were happy written in October 1820, a hundred to publish shortly. A new Afterword to grant him 100 acres of land in the years or so after his grandfather left has been written and additions environs of the settlement. he was the father of Robert our poet. possessed by all of God’s creatures. Ballymoney; and yet it was written made and we hope that it will prove ‘Daddy Dinsmoor’, as he was When Robert was still a young lad, The poem was written in Ulster- in a style that at once paid homage to be just as popular this time known, was a stonemason to trade he wrote a little poem dedicated Scots in the poetic style that Burns to Robert Burns and was also around given the strong links that and not surprisingly, he built himself to his pet dog ’Skip’. It was written would make famous. Remarkable the language of his Scottish and have been built between Ulster and a strong house and sent word back before the works of Burns were really to remember that it was Ulster antecedents. The poem was Maine since 2018. to Ballymoney for his wife and published, but expressed that same composed on the American frontier written as a letter of thanks for the Alister McReynolds is an author children to come and join him. His sense of the sacrosanct equality that two generations after the family left hospitality extended to Dinsmoor by and historian specialising in son William was born in 1731 and Burns would later express as being Ulster: a friend that he visited in the Scotch- Ulster-Scots and New England Calling all Ulster-Scots writers

One of the highlights of Ulster- and adults to let them know that received a Scottish Government Scotch Leid Week will be a their Scots is valid, treasured & a grant to produce ‘Wheen,’ my new Masterclass for Ulster-Scots part of who they are. I’m not just and selected poems in Scots in writers led by the acclaimed Scots involved in Scots language – it’s an 2020. And Tippermuir Books from poet Stuart Paterson. essential part of who I am. Perth will be publishing a big, The event, which will take place in ‘‘I live in Galloway and visit schools illustrated collection of my poems for the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre through the Scottish Book Trust’s weans, ‘A Squatter o Bairnrhymes,’ in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter on Live Literature scheme, much also in 2020. Virrsome days aheid! November 30, will include a session of this work focused on getting ‘‘I’m very excited to have started for aspiring writers who can write young people to write and express work as a Scottish Qualifications in Ulster-Scots but have never had themselves in their own Scots. I Authority External Verifier in schools a go at poetry; and a session for also collaborate with other artists in throughout Scotland, on the SQA experienced Ulster-Scots writers/ music, painting, theatre and recently Scots Language Award which raises poets who want to take their work to glasswork. Poetry, to me, should be the standing & profile of Scots as the next level. accessible without being dumbed a subject of increasing academic Ahead of his forthcoming visit, down, relevant without having to be recognition. I sit on the Board of the Stuart has shared some of his jokey, for people and not AT people. Scottish Poetry Library, promoting philosophy with The Ulster-Scot: Scots very much involves the poetry not only Scots language but Scottish ‘‘I’m looking forward immensely to and music of people and place. It’s poetry itself as widely as possible. visiting Belfast, on St. Andrew’s Day a real and fantoosh privilege to be I’ve lots of upcoming work with of all days! And what a marvellous part of that. shuilweans and teachers in Scots reason to visit – blethering about, ‘‘I work full-time as a poet and writer through the Scottish Book Trust and reading and engaging a wheen of and have heavily promoted Scots have started developing a play about folk in Scots, my native language. Masterclass with Scots poet across the UK and abroad through the amazing Isobel ‘Tibbie’ Pagan of A language with a written tradition Stuart Paterson my work in TV, online, in print and Robert Burns’s ‘Ca’ The Yowes’ fame. going back over 700 years: a in the classroom. My first collection ‘‘And I’ll continue to advocate language which 1.4 million Scots entirely in Scots, ‘Aye’, twice sold out wherever and whenever possible for identified as being speakers of in the ‘‘I was brought up and educated as not ‘a dialect of English’ or slang. in 2016. As did ‘Heelster Gowdie/ Scots as a language. A language of 2011 census and a language which, a young working-class guy just over It’s a language, my language, our Beul-fo-bhonn,’ a collection I wrote the everyday and the everywhere, as I write, is undergoing a huge the water from Northern Ireland, language. I work hard to promote with Gaelic poet Marcas Mac an not just for one day a year in national resurgence at grassroots in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire. I consider its use, not just in the arts but in Tuarneir. The CD of my works by January. Haud furrit!’’ and government levels. What better Scots to be my first language. It’s everyday life, which I believe was noted Scots language archivists For more information about the time to visit Northern Ireland and the language we spoke in the house, one of the reasons I became BBC ‘Scotsoun’ is currently on sale. Masterclass, contact the Ulster- shine a bricht an couthie licht on wir in the playground, with family and Scotland Poet in Residence in 2017. I was delighted that renowned Scots Community Network on shared leid? pals, at work and in the howffs. It’s And I love working with young folk Scottish publisher Chapman recently 02890 436710. Saturday, November 23, 2019 ♂ ♂ 15

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 15 Ali to host Ulster-Scots TV show

he Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund is set to fund a Ttwo-part television series focused on young Ulster-Scots presented by Scots language social media sensation Alistair Heather. This series, entitled Blether, aims to stimulate a renaissance in Northern Ireland amongst Ulster- Scots speakers. The plan is to take several creative young people from traditional Ulster-Scots communities and introduce them and their culture to presenter Heather, who will invite them to participate in a series of Scots language challenges, taking those willing to accept with him to Scotland. Hot-housed in an environment where Scots is flourishing in an urban, 21st century context, we will find out if the experience can inspire the young people to think differently Ali Heather about how they use Ulster-Scots back home. The programmes will focus on people in Northern Ireland. It will be ‘‘It is great to have Ali Heather on Herald, The National and The engaged native speaker, Alistair’s the future of Ulster-Scots, but made clear that the future of Ulster- board, he is a real force of nature Scotsman. In the last year his enthusiasm for Scots is infectious. also seek to understand the Scots is thriving here and also open for the promotion of Scots and we Facebook films – presented in Scots For him, this language remains present. Alistair will explore the a debate on how other indigenous have enjoyed some really interesting - for BBC Scotland’s ‘The Social’ central to his identity, his daily life – contemporary story through the languages are growing around the chats about the Scots language have helped build him a huge social and his future. contributors’ experiences, as well world. that we share and how Ulster and media presence, with combined Blether will be made by as in lively discussions with some Commenting on the development, Scotland can work together to take it views of around six million. Alistair local company Erica Starling of the academics and activists Ulster-Scots Agency Chief Executive forward. It is a great opportunity and works at the University of Aberdeen Productions and directed by fighting to keep the language Ian Crozier said: ‘‘We are very we look forward to helping to make promoting the language in the Gillian Callan, whose previous alive in 21st century Northern excited about the potential of this the most of it.’’ North-East at both grassroots and Ulster-Scots projects include The Ireland. This project will add to the project to bring Ulster-Scots to a Alistair Heather is from the village official levels and runs evening Village, The Call of the Pipes and content already produced but also much younger audience, who will of Newbigging in Angus. A writer, classes for native speakers and An Independent People. Executive reenergise the sector by engaging be essential for the future of our historian and columnist, he writes migrants to improve their fluency in Producer will be BAFTA-winning with young, vibrant and creative language. in both Scots and English for the the ‘Mither Tongue.’ A passionately film-maker Alison Millar. Ards Choir sings the Messiah

his Christmas will be unique for a group of singers from The Messiah Choir rehearses in Portavogie Tthe Ards Peninsula, as their Primary School community choir prepares to be broadcast across Northern Ireland singing Handel’s Messiah in Ulster-Scots as part of a television production for the BBC, which has been supported by the Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund and the Ulster-Scots Agency. The programme follows the choir, drawn from residents of the Ards, from their formation, through months of rehearsals as they work with Choir Director Neil Martin and a top class musical ensemble to prepare and perform excerpts from The Messiah which have been translated into Ulster-Scots by Dr Philip Robinson of the Ulster-Scots Language Society. Their journey culminates in a live performance in front of an audience at the Portico in Portaferry. The project was inspired by a Scots Agency Chief Executive, undertaken by the same people expression of the Christian faith. choirs since then and become a language project involving the Ian Crozier, said: ‘‘This is a really who translated the four gospels With its solo arias, interspersed with much-loved Christmas tradition. local community of Aberdeenshire, special project which gives a local into Ulster-Scots, which means that compelling chorus numbers, the Singing The Messiah – An which staged the Messiah in the community the opportunity to the linguistic element will be top oratorio tells the story of Jesus’ birth, Ards Christmas Choir is being local Scots dialect of Doric: this engage with their own language, notch and we have no doubt that life, crucifixion, resurrection and final produced by DoubleBand documentary series will follow the Ulster-Scots, in a unique way, the singing will be top notch as victory over sin and death. Productions, which has similar communal experience of allowing them to combine their love well.’’ First performed in Dublin in 1742 made a range of Ulster-Scots local people planning and staging a of singing with the language that The Messiah is one of the most and heralding the opening of programmes including Brave performance in Ulster-Scots in the they have grown up with. famous and popular pieces of Belfast’s Ulster Hall in 1862, New World and We The People. landscape of the Ards peninsula. ‘‘We are delighted that the classical music in the world – one George Frideric Handel’s Messiah It will be broadcast on BBC Two Commenting on the initiative, Ulster- translation work has been instilled with a deep and passionate has been performed regularly by Northern Ireland in December. 16 www.ulsterscotsagency .com

COMPETITION R J P D M P C T K M F M Z E N WIN A FAMILY PASS N E V F T A T I K E E L S R E TO WE ARE VERTIGO To be in with a chance of winning a family pass either: T E D T O Y T B C P V E E P E 1. Complete Our Hamely Tongue word search; 2. Send us your own poem/ limerick using Ulster-Scots words; A Z V N R X C B G H U H V K H or 3. Send us a photo of any Ulster-Scots road names B V M E O Y U A K B T E S P W or place names (townlands) near you. Send your entries by email to competition@ ulsterscotsagency.org.uk with Weans’ Wurld competition J E U K V H S R G E N A R H T (Nov) in the subject line. Please remember to include your Y Q P B E J T C L U N E R A D name and contact details. Alternatively post your answer to: H A L L I O N B E F L W X A A Ulster-Scots Agency, The Corn Exchange, 31 Gordon Street, Belfast, BT1 2LG Closing date: 9th December 2019 P W O Y K E W V F R I D Q F N Competition winners names and the winning photo will be B H B W Q Q X Q L N A A E O N shared in a following issue. T O K F A I Y E D L H U R R E N F D A F F Z A E A L P Q I R P X A D H M E C J C O U A P I D F L T B X B S Y P N C Q B P R W U F Q R I C Z D Y Q N K R

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