FIREFIGHTERS could use Gaelic more often under plans out for consultation by fire chiefs.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) says the language "belongs to everyone" and wants to "normalise" its use.

While around 100 of its team has some level of Gaelic skills, just 17 speak it on a daily basis with members of the public. Only five use it formally in the workplace when dealing with colleagues and managers.

SFRS says it plans to "make an active offer" of its Gaelic services to staff and the public "so that Gaelic users are made aware of their existence and are actively encouraged to use them".

That's part of a three-year blueprint now out for consultation.

Bosses plan to promote Gaelic language training as well as culture awareness modules and resources. They also aim to encourage the use of Gaelic at public meetings in heartland areas such as Argyll and Bute, Eilean Siar and Highland.

Liz Barnes, SFRS director of people and organisational development, said: "Gaelic belongs to the whole of Scotland and we would like to develop the understanding and use of the language, its history and heritage.

"You can help shape the future of Gaelic in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

"Responses to the consultation will be used to shape our approach and inform the final plan."

The consultation will run for six weeks from January 17 to February 27, 2022, and can be accessed here.