Scottish Government Faces Criticism Over Response to Orange Walk Attack

In an incident that has prompted significant concern and controversy, several members of the Orange Lodge of Scotland were reportedly attacked with suspected air gun pellets during a procession through Glasgow on July 5, 2023. This incident occurred as marchers commemorated the 1690 Battle of the Boyne, a historical event of great significance to the Protestant community. Following the attack, which left eight individuals injured, the Scottish government has faced accusations of silence and inaction, particularly from members of the Orange Lodge, who claim that the lack of a robust response from government officials signals a tacit approval of violence against their community.

The Orange Lodge's Grand Master, Andrew Murray, expressed disappointment over the Scottish First Minister John Swinney's lack of engagement, stating that repeated correspondence regarding the attack went unanswered. Murray asserted that the absence of a ministerial presence at the meeting held in Edinburgh with lodge representatives was unacceptable, suggesting that such inattention could embolden further acts of violence against Protestant groups. “The silence from the first minister itself almost gives a green light to attack our parades,” stated Murray during an interview with BBC Scotland News.

In contrast, John Swinney condemned the violence against the Orange Order, describing it as “completely and utterly unacceptable.” He indicated that the incidents raised by the Orange Order would be thoroughly investigated, and that Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown would meet with lodge representatives to discuss their concerns. “I take all forms of hate within our society deadly seriously,” Swinney added, emphasizing the government's commitment to addressing the implications of hate and fostering a cohesive society.

The Orange Lodge has reported not only the pellet attack but also incidents of vandalism at their halls and online abuse directed at female members. David Walters, the executive officer of the Orange Lodge of Scotland, further criticized the Scottish government for perceived favoritism, noting that a recent instance of vandalism at a Catholic school received immediate attention from Swinney, while the air gun attack on Orange members was met with silence. Walters stated, “If any other group had been attacked, this incident would have been taken more seriously.”

The police investigation into the air gun attack is ongoing, with Police Scotland confirming that the attack occurred near Sauchiehall Street during the march. A spokesperson from the police stated that the incident was being treated as a serious matter. Ch Supt Jordana Emerson of Police Scotland reassured the Orange community that their concerns would be addressed and that any reports of hate crime would be fully investigated.

This incident is not isolated; sectarian tensions have resurfaced in Scotland amidst a backdrop of historical animosity between Protestant and Catholic communities. Previous Orange marches have been marred by violence and sectarian abuse, highlighting the need for proactive measures to ensure public safety during such events. In 2018, for instance, a priest was verbally abused during an Orange walk, leading to legal repercussions for the assailant.

The implications of the recent air gun attack extend beyond immediate concerns about safety; they touch upon broader societal questions regarding the treatment of different cultural groups in Scotland. As Scotland continues to grapple with its historical sectarian divides, the response of government officials will be critical in shaping community relations moving forward. Calls for action against sectarianism have grown louder, with many advocates urging the Scottish government to adopt a more proactive stance in preventing such incidents and fostering dialogue between communities.

As the investigation continues, the Orange Lodge remains vocal about their experiences and the perceived neglect from government officials. The outcomes of this situation may significantly influence future interactions between the Scottish government and various community organizations, potentially setting a precedent for how sectarian-related incidents are addressed in Scotland.