Pàdraig MacAoidh

Pàdraig MacAoidh (English: Peter Mackay) (born 1979) is a Scottish academic, writer, poet and broadcaster, currently serving as the Makar since 2 December 2024. Appointed by first minister John Swinney, he succeeded Kathleen Jamie in the role, and is the first Makar to write primarily in Scottish Gaelic.

Early life and education

MacAoidh was born in 1979 on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides in Scotland. He previously attended Trinity College, Dublin, as well as obtaining a Master of Arts from the University of Glasgow.

Career Broadcasting

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.

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.

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".