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Strathclyde Police Muslim Association
03/12/2008
The launch of Scotland's first Muslim police association is a positive step in strengthening relations between the police and Muslim communities, First Minister Alex Salmond said in Glasgow today.
The First Minister was speaking at the launch of the Strathclyde Police Muslim Association (SPMA) at Glasgow City Chambers.
The SPMA aims to contribute to the development of better relations between the police and Muslim communities.
First Minister Alex Salmond said:
"The establishment of Scotland's first Muslim police association is a significant step forward in strengthening relations between Strathclyde Police and Muslim communities.
"Scotland's diversity is one of its greatest strengths and it's important we encourage dialogue and partnership across all faiths if we are to make Scotland a safer and stronger society.
"The establishment of the Strathclyde Police Muslim Association (SPMA) highlights the significance the force places on good community relations.
"The Scottish Government welcomes its aims to support the development of programmes that engage with young people, to promote a more accurate and positive image of Islam through the force and also to support the recruitment of people from faith communities into the service.
"The Association is a positive step towards making Strathclyde Police more effective in understanding and responding to community concerns."