Pàdraig MacAoidh (English: Peter Mackay)[1] (born 1972) is a Scottish academic, writer, poet and broadcaster, currently serving as the Makar since 2 December 2024. Appointed by first ministerJohn Swinney, he succeeded Kathleen Jamie in the role, and is the first Makar to write primarily in Scottish Gaelic.[2][3]
His work in broadcasting is inspired and influenced by the diverse linguistic heritage of the Isle of Lewis where he was born and raised as a child.[5] He has appeared on BBC Alba as a broadcaster.[6]
Academic
MacAoidh is a Senior Lecturer in Literature at the University of St Andrews. Academically, MacAoidh is considered an expert in both Scottish and Irish literature, primarily from 1800 to the present day, and is particularly interested in Scottish Gaelic literature.[7]
His published collection of poems include Gu Leòr (2015) and Acair: Nàdur De (2020), as well as a published pamphlet, From Another Island (2010). His poems are written in both the English and Scottish Gaelic language, however, his work is predominately written in Scottish Gaelic. His work have been translated into a number of various languages, primarily in Europe, including French, German and Irish.[8]
In December 2024, he was appointed the Makar, the national poet of Scotland, by first minister John Swinney. Upon his appointment, Swinney stated that he was "very pleased" with the appointment, further claiming that "he has attracted a wide audience, and many accolades, through his originality, playfulness and willingness to take risks with language".[5]
Additionally, MacAoidh claimed he was "very grateful to the panel for their faith in me, and to the First Minister for his support, and especially his enthusiasm about a Gaelic poet taking on the role".[5]
His appointment marked the first time that a Scottish Gaelic poet had been appointed to the role of Makar.[2]
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