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Muslim Police Association
01/06/2008
First Minister Alex Salmond has given his backing to a move by Strathclyde Police to establish Scotland's first Muslim Police Association by the end of this year.
Speaking at the 21st anniversary dinner of the Pakistan Welfare Trust in Renfrew tonight, the First Minister said he was confident that the new group would deliver the dual benefits of encouraging more Muslims to join and stay in the police and help develop a better understanding of Islam within the police service.
The First Minister also paid tribute to the work of Pakistan Welfare Trust over the past 21 years in establishing itself as one of the largest non-political organisations in Scotland.
Mr Salmond said:
"Since its foundation in 1987, the Pakistan Welfare Trust has provided invaluable support and advice to the Pakistani community on issues as diverse as housing, racial harassment and immigration.
"It is clear that the Pakistani community has an impact and influence on almost every aspect of Scottish life - enriching and enhancing our economy, culture and society and creating jobs and opportunities in our communities.
"I expect that contribution and impact will only grow in the years to come - and that alongside that, the understanding and respect between Scotland's diverse communities will also grow.
"One of my first engagements as First Minister was to speak at this event last year, and in between times we have had to deal with the aftermath of the Glasgow Airport attack.
"Crucial in dealing positively with that attack was ensuring that the bonds of community solidarity in Scotland that groups like the Pakistan Welfare Trust have helped establish were strong and remained intact in the hours, days and weeks after.
"The day after the Glasgow attack, I went from the airport to the Glasgow Central Mosque, accompanied by members of every faith group and by representatives from Strathclyde Police - a vivid demonstration of the excellent community bonds that allowed Scotland to hold its nerve.
"In that context, I very much welcome and support the foundation of Scotland's first Muslim Police Association by Strathclyde Police, which is to be established by the end of this year.
"I am sure that will not only encourage more men and women from the Pakistani community to join and stay in the police - but also help to forge a better understanding of Islam within the force. I know that this important initiative has the Chief Constable's personal enthusiasm and I wish it well in its development.