THE Scottish Government must take a "strong and visible" lead in the fight against sectarianism, Anniesland MSP Bill Butler said today.

THE Scottish Government must take a "strong and visible" lead in the fight against sectarianism, Anniesland MSP Bill Butler said today.

Mr Butler was speaking after hosting the premiere at the Scottish Parliament of Sectarian Stories, an educational documentary produced by anti-bigotry group Nil By Mouth and Glasgow's Gallery of Modern Art.

The film highlights people's personal experiences of sectarianism.

It features contributions from 12 people, including a firefighter who was assaulted in Coatbridge, a young mother who suffered a sustained campaign of sectarian abuse and intimidation, and a nurse speaking of her experiences in an A&E ward on the weekend of a Celtic v Rangers match.

Mr Butler has lodged a Parliamentary motion praising those involved with the documentary and outlining his belief that clear leadership from the Scottish Government is vital to build on progress made in recent years.

He said: "The contributors to this documentary are not actors, but real people sharing real experiences that highlight the often brutal impact sectarianism can have on people in Scotland.

"I applaud those involved for having the courage to speak out.

"However, individuals alone can only do so much. To continue to challenge sectarianism we require a strong lead from the Scottish Government."