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Tackling sectarianism

23/11/2009

Community Safety Minister Fergus Ewing will see first hand the work being done to help tackle sectarianism in Scotland.

An event at the Scottish Youth Theatre in Glasgow will involve organisations such as Sense Over Sectarianism, Nil By Mouth, Iona Community and Youth Link Scotland with the main focus of the day being the work done by schools. Children from St Benedicts, Crookstone Castle and St Marnocks primary schools will put on performances for invited guests.

Community Safety Minister Fergus Ewing said:

"For far too long sectarianism has plagued the lives of many of our people. Tackling discrimination, wherever and whenever it arises, is the responsibility of us all.

"But it is important that we celebrate the work that is being done to tackle and prevent sectarianism in Scotland. I am looking forward to seeing the performances from the pupils later today. The work being done in our schools will be the key to eventually eradicating sectarianism.

"This Government's strategy on tackling sectarianism is based on funding key projects and bringing together organisations to work together to send a clear message throughout the country that sectarianism is never acceptable and never excusable.

"Sectarianism has blighted Scotland for too long. But working together we are committed to building a Scotland where sectarianism is a thing of the past, a Scotland that recognises and celebrates that all our faiths and cultures make us a better, stronger nation."

The Minister announced further measures to tackle sectarianism in a statement to parliament on November 18, 2009.

Page updated: Monday, November 23, 2009