Oban has been selected to host the Royal National Mòd (RNM) in 2028, subject to funding approval by the Full Council in February.
At a meeting of Argyll and Bute Council’s Policy and Resources Committee, councillors formally accepted an offer from An Comunn’s to host the RNM in the town and agreed in principle to provide the organisation with a maximum of £200,000 of financial support over a four-year period.
Councillors also agreed in principle to enter into an agreement with Live Argyll to secure the use of its venues for the duration of the RNM for £25,000.
The Council’s Policy Lead for Climate Change, Biodiversity and Gaelic, Councillor Luna Martin, said:
“Gaelic plays a vital role in Argyll and Bute’s cultural and educational landscape, and we are committed to helping it grow. For many years, the Council has recognised the benefits of hosting the RNM here, and we are proud to offer our support to ensure its success again in Oban in 2028. The RNM is more than a celebration—it strengthens our language and traditions and demonstrates Argyll and Bute’s capacity to deliver major national events.”
Policy Lead for Economic Development, Housing, Islands and Communities, Councillor Jim Lynch, added:
“The RNM contributes significantly to tourism by creating authentic cultural experiences that drive the sector’s long-term ambitions. It also has a huge positive impact on the local economy, with last year’s event in Oban generating approximately £3.6 million. We look forward to working with An Comunn and seeing the plans progress.”