Question reference: S6W-02656
- Asked by: James Dornan, MSP for Glasgow Cathcart, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 7 September 2021
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Current status: Answered by Shona Robison on 23 September 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has to meet with representatives from Rangers FC, Police Scotland, Glasgow City Council and members from the Irish-Scottish community, in light of recent events in Glasgow and the reported singing of racist songs.
Answer
The Scottish Government unequivocally condemns all forms of hatred or prejudice, including anti-Irish racism, and understands the impact that recent events will have had on Irish communities in Scotland. There is no excuse – it is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Scotland is a diverse, multi-cultural society and this diversity strengthens us as a nation. That is why we are determined to tackle all forms of prejudice and discrimination.
We continue to work with Police Scotland who monitor the situation on reported hate crimes and hate incidents closely. The Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans also meets fortnightly with the Chief Constable of Police Scotland, where a number of matters are discussed.
Additionally the Scottish Government meets regularly with faith and belief organisations and consults with organisations representing the Irish-Scottish community. We are continuing to consider further engagement with representatives of communities impacted by recent events to provide reassurance that the Scottish Government take all forms of hate crime and bigotry seriously.