Said Mr Allan said: "The coming few years are going to be a critical time in the survival of the Gaelic language and I am therefore seeking to have a members' debate in the Scottish Parliament in the coming few months to highlight the future development of the language and which will also, hopefully, allow for Gaelic to be used in a parliamentary debate."

He went on: "There are a number of exciting developments for all those involved in Gaelic to look forward to in the near future, including the much anticipated launch of the Gaelic digital television channel, but there are a few areas in which it must be the priority to support and develop the language in the coming years.

"These areas particularly include in the areas of Gaelic medium education and importantly the use of Gaelic within communities. I hope to highlight these factors and more through a proposed members' debate," added Mr Allan.