The continued growth of interest in Manx Gaelic and the international recognition this has engendered for the Island was further illustrated last week when Adrian Cain, the Manx Language Development Officer for Culture Vannin, was invited to Guernsey to join the Guernsey Language Commission.

Often referred to as 'Guernsey French' or 'patois'  Guernesiais is actually a form of Norman,  and although in the year 2000 there were about 1,300 fluent speakers the number has fallen away sharply since then and most fluent speakers are now aged over 65, leading the language to be classed as 'Endangered'.

Very little of the language is taught in schools but Adrian was invited to Guernsey to talk specifically  about the experience in the Isle of Man of developing an integrated adult language programme. 

Language supporters and politicians from Guernsey have already travelled to the Isle of Man on several occasions whilst this appointment should hopefully lead to a close working relationship between the two Island nations.

During his short visit Adrian Cain met the Chief Minister of Guernsey, Jonathan Le Tocq, who is a native speaker of Guernesiais and he also appeared on BBC Radio Guernsey.  Coincidentally, the Manx group, Barrule  also starred in a high profile concert in St Peter's Port during his day ensuring that Guernsey had a great introduction to the music and language of the Isle of Man.

 Photo - Adrian Cain presenting Jonathan le Tocq, Chief Minister of Guernsey, with a copy of the Manx version of the Gruffalo’s Child.