An Orange Lodge’s request for civic hospitality from a local authority, which would have cost £2,100, has been rejected by a majority of elected members.
Paisley District Loyal Orange Lodge contacted Renfrewshire Council to raise the possibility of a dinner for approximately 95 people at its premises to mark its 150th anniversary.
Following consultation with the provost, it was proposed the finance, resources and customer services policy board agree to the request.
However, SNP council leader Iain Nicolson moved to refuse instead and was seconded by depute Jacqueline Cameron, who represents Johnstone South and Elderslie, at its meeting on Thursday.
The Erskine and Inchinnan representative said: “If this organisation is saying that they have changed the way they operate, the way they see the world, the way they view other minorities in their communities, I think that’s fine.
“We’re not saying we’d never accept an application from them if it’s for a different purpose or a different reason but I think the fact that they’re trying to celebrate 150 years of history, I think they have to reflect on that history.”
He continued: “Have they reconciled themselves to their past behaviour and the way they’ve operated? I think that’s quite a straightforward rationale behind my reasons for moving that today.”
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Councillor James MacLaren, a Conservative representative for Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank, suggested the matter be continued to allow the organisation to respond.
He was seconded by his group leader Neill Graham. The Paisley Northeast and Ralston representative said: “The organisation said it’s looking forward and I think it’s a good thing.
“I don’t think we should be refusing it … I would be happy to second Councillor MacLaren if you want to get more information from them, if they want to express themselves in support of their [request].”
Provost Lorraine Cameron, an SNP representative for Paisley Southwest, explained the procedure behind the recommendation to the board.
She said: “I was satisfied at that point that the organisation met the criteria for civic hospitality, given the information that they provided to me at the time.
“I apply the same process to every claim for civic hospitality – some meet the criteria, some don’t.”
She added: “Given that councillors appear to be divided on the issue, I think it would be prudent for me to abstain from the vote and let the board decide.”
A total of seven elected members voted in favour of refusal, while five believed the matter should have been continued.
The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland, of which Paisley District Loyal Orange Lodge is a part, expressed its disappointment at the outcome.
David Walters, executive officer, said: “Paisley District Loyal Orange Lodge has been part of the fabric of Paisley for 150 years.
“Throughout that time, it has played a positive and active role within the local community, supporting numerous charitable causes and community initiatives.
“More recently, during the Covid-19 pandemic, members assisted vulnerable residents and provided food parcels to local fire and ambulance stations in support of frontline workers and those most in need, regardless of faith or background.
“The request made by Paisley District was simply for recognition of its 150 years of service and contribution to the town.”
Mr Walters considered Councillor Nicolson’s comments to be “disrespectful” and felt they demonstrated “a lack of understanding” of the organisation.
He added: “The Orange Institution has modernised significantly over recent decades and continues to do so.
“We remain committed to engaging positively with all communities and fostering greater understanding between different traditions.”
