There can be no doubt that in recent years the Edinburgh Mod has been a great success. New events have been added, competitor numbers have increased and the opportunity for young people to take part in this fantastic local cultural event has never been better.

It is clear, however, that the current format for the Mod will not sustain future growth and development. Talks have been underway with a view to looking at how the Mod can be allowed to build on previous successes. Initially, these discussions centred on the need for the Mod to be held over two days but it became apparent that other issues also required attention. As a result, a decision has been made to reschedule the Edinburgh Local Mod from September to April. There is never an absolutely ideal time of year to hold an event of this type but April has been agreed as the most suitable time based on the following factors.

• Inclusion of Gaelic Learners from the 5 primary schools taking part in the GLPS programme
• Clas 1 pupils will have more time to prepare

It is worth pointing out that the inclusion of Gaelic learners from across Edinburgh is at the very core of the ethos of the Mod, that being the promotion and development of Gaelic to the wider community.

• The third weekend in April will avoid Easter Holidays and the May Bank Holiday Weekends.
• September was too soon after the Summer holidays giving the organisers less time to prepare. This also had an impact on the application process
• April is outwith the Pipe Band Competition season so there should be little or no impact on the piping entrants

In addition to moving the Mod to April other changes to the format, including the addition of competitions on Saturday, A new Mod Logo and new prizes, are also planned.

As a result of this decision there will be no Edinburgh Mod in September 2009. While this will obviously be a disappointment for many people, the short timescale from September to April would prohibit completing any significant changes to, and re-branding of, the new Edinburgh Mod if the September Mod was to go ahead. It should be pointed out at this stage that a Mod related event will take place in September, with the details being announced as soon as these are finalised. The dates of the new Edinburgh Mod in April 2010 will also be announced as soon as possible.

The organisers are confident that these changes will secure the ongoing growth and development of the Edinburgh Mod and will allow for more exciting developments in the future.

Edinburgh Local Mod Organising Committee