That the Parliament welcomes the news that Doric will now be taught at university for the first time; understands that the language will be taught at the University of Aberdeen and that this will include the history and vocabulary of the north-eastern dialect; understands that it is spoken by 49% of people in Aberdeenshire, is widely spoken by young people and has an extensive body of literature; notes that Dr Thomas McKean, the director of the university’s Elphinstone Institute, which researches and protects the north east’s distinct cultural heritage, hopes the course will elevate the dialect and place it on an equal footing with other European languages; recognises that it has its own unique rules, vocabulary and perspective and is a critical part of the north east’s and Scotland’s culture; commends Thomas and the University for undertaking this work, and wishes them the best of luck in its delivery.