Projects aimed at tackling sectarianism in Falkirk’s communities will benefit from nearly £100,000 Scottish Government funding.

Central Scotland Regional Equality Council will receive funding following advice from the Advisory Group on Tackling Sectarianism in Scotland. The group, which was established in August 2012 to inform policy on sectarianism, has now had its work extended until September.

Falkirk West MSP Michael Matheson, whose constituency covers the work of the CSREC which has been given nearly £100,000 funding, said:

“The Central Scotland Regional Equality Council play an important role in the Falkirk area so it is extremely welcome to hear it will be one of the groups to benefit from this new Scottish Government funding.

“The Scottish Government’s vision of a Scotland that is not blighted by the scourge of sectarianism will be boosted by this money that will help make our communities safer places to live.

“The fund underlines the Scottish Governments pledge to creating a Scotland of equal opportunities for all – a country where everyone has the chance to fulfil their potential regardless of their religion, race, age gender or creed.

“The Advisory Group on Tackling Sectarianism’s work in evaluating the projects that were funded last year has given clear and decisive advice on how to proceed with funding this year – which was to invest in community-based work.

“Spreading the message that there is no place for sectarianism in a modern Scotland in our communities is part of a long-term strategy to deliver that fundamental culture shift within Scottish society to help make this a more tolerant country.”