A row has erupted after a churchman claimed the promotion and discussion of gay issues in schools increases bullying.
Lay preacher Ally MacLean, an appointed member of the Highland education committee, called for all Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender LGBT references to be removed from school literature to avoid potential incitement – but his choice of words angered some councillors.
He claimed that “homosexuality and other LGBT practices are being taught in school,” and that books in schools were “promoting LGBT practices”.
Mr MacLean told committee colleagues that many parents are concerned that pupils are being left “confused and disturbed”.
He said: “We’re against bullying in our schools and elsewhere in society, whether it’s against LGBT people or any other group, but it appears the LGBT lobby is using bullying of pupils to bring their agenda into our schools.”
He warned that “overt” LGBT lifestyles “attract attention,” adding: “Sadly, one of the reactions against them may well be bullying.”
Committee colleague and Nairn SNP councillor Stephen Fuller was appalled by the statements.
He said: “The whole tone was quite bigoted against LGBT groups.”
The committee ultimately backed the “Time for Inclusive Education” report before them.
Mr MacLean, 68, a member of the Free Presbytery Church of Scotland in Dingwall, is one of three religious representatives on the committee. Churches, the NHS and a youth convener are all appointed under local government law.
Responding to the attack, Mr MacLean said: “If anyone’s got an opposing view to the the LGBT agenda they’re looked upon as being homophobic or bigots. I am most certainly not homophobic, nor am I racist. But I think there should be fairness.”
He urged any victims of bullying to speak to their head teacher or guidance staff.
A council spokeswoman said: “Mr MacLean holds one of the committee places required by legislation for faith representatives. His comments were rejected by councillors.
“While we know LGBT pupils can experience bullying, we’re committed to address this.”
Highland LGBT activist Kevin Crowe said: “The unelected Mr MacLean seems to be blaming victims for being bullied, whereas the only way to eradicate bullying is for teachers and education authorities to confront it head-on.
“I wish there had been campaigns against bullying when I was at school in the 1950s and 1960s, when male homosexuality was still a crime.”
