Bigotry Stats a ‘Wake Up’ Call
Hundreds of people have been convicted of sectarian offences across Scotland according to new figures I have uncovered.
The statistics which showed there were 235 convictions across Scotland for sectarian offences during 2009/10, more than half of which occurred in Glasgow. The figures bring the number of people convicted of sectarian offences in Scotland to 2,217 since tough new laws were introduced in 2003.
These statistics provide a stark reminder of the work which still needs to be done in order to rid Scotland of sectarianism.
Whilst the figures for Glasgow are shocking enough it must also be acknowledged that there have been convictions right across the country. Since 2003 we have seen over 2,200 people convicted of sectarian offences nationwide.
Such damning statistics demand urgent action and must serve as a ‘wake up call’ to anyone who doubts the need for a charity like Nil by Mouth. I would urge Ministers to act now to secure its future.
We cannot allow sectarianism to slip back into the darkness.
