This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Respect is 'antidote' to sectarianism
12/12/2006
A range of work is under way not only to stamp out sectarianism but to build a Scotland of understanding and mutual respect, the second Summit on Sectarianism was told today in Glasgow.
Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson also stressed the importance of work aimed not simply at curbing the excesses of sectarianism, but at encouraging positive development.
Today, for example, a new guide on twinning has been issued for schools, setting out the benefits of twinning arrangements in terms of developing understanding and friendship.
In addition, the Task Group on Tackling Sectarianism has been considering a range of initiatives to actively promote respect and inclusion.
These include:
- The development of a rehabilitation programme to help tackle the behaviour and attitudes of individuals who have been involved in, or convicted of, sectarian behaviour
- Developing community engagement through use of an anti-sectarianism roadshow
- the potential role of banning orders to deal with abusive behaviour at marches and parades
Ms Jamieson said:
"We all want to live in a Scotland in which justice and respect flourish.
"Since the first, historic summit in 2005 we have made great progress in equipping authorities with the tools they need to curb sectarian behaviour.
"Football Banning Orders have brought the power to root-out the hooligans from our sports grounds. New legislation has allowed religious aggravation to be treated with the severity it deserves in the courts. New rules for marches and parades, together with the clear guidance issued to local authorities today, will give communities more of a say.
"Of course we must continue to work to ensure effective sanctions are in place to stop sectarian behaviour. That is why I am keen to consider what scope there is for us to apply the success of banning orders in football to the hangers-on around marches and parades. But as the First Minister has indicated today, we are entering a new phase in our drive to make Scotland sectarian-free.
"We need to engage with individuals and communities across Scotland to ensure bigotry can find no place. Through schools, through arts, and through community liaison we have already seen real progress. Now we need to build upon the hope we have found and find new ways of encouraging tolerance, understanding and respect.
"With new ideas on the table and committed leaders around the table - we are on course for a future in which sectarianism and its few misguided advocates wither. Of course the summit alone will not take us there, and Executive policies will not be enough to turn the tide. But if communities come with us - I am confident we can deliver a sectarian-free Scotland."