And figures for violence in West Dunbartonshire schools appear to have been doctored …
by Bill Heaney
The Catholic Church in Scotland is preparing to defend vigorously the right to have its own schools.
The Scottish Parliament is considering amendments to the Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment of UNCRC Compatibility Duty) (Scotland) Bill, which would seek to change the current religious opt-out provisions in schools.
But a spokesperson for Scotland’s bishops said on social media this week that the Church is “disappointed and confused” with the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee’s decision to agree an amendment that has the effect of separating Religious Education (RE) and Religious Observance (RO) in schools.
He added: “There is an intrinsic link between religious education and religious observance in Catholic schools.
“Religious education gives knowledge of faith, while religious observance is the living expression. One without the other risks empty ritual or solely ‘head’ knowledge.
“Separating them suggests that the Scottish Government, and those who voted for this amendment, do not value their role in Catholic schools.
“Furthermore, we are concerned that this amendment has the effect of changing the long-standing conscience clause in section 9 of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 and removes important rights for parents.
“We continue to be disappointed with the policy of the Scottish Green party, as confirmed by Maggie Chapman during the Committee session, to campaign for the removal of denominational schools from the Scottish Education system.
“The inclusion of denominational schools in the state system in Scotland continues to be an example of a diverse, pluralistic, democratic education system in action.
“The Catholic Church looks forward to constructive engagement in Stage 3 of the Bill, and to working collaboratively with government, parliament, and other stakeholders to ensure that any final legislation respects both parent and children’s rights and the rich heritage of Catholic education in Scotland.”
Catholics were given the right to have their own schools following the 1918 Education Scotland Act which was promoted by then Dumbarton St Patrick’s Church parish priest Monsignor Hugh Canon Kelly, left, whose parishioners were largely Catholics of Irish immigrant stock.
People on social media who joined in the discussion included Fiona Campbell, who wrote: “I am all for the Christian faith being observed.”