The public have reacted following the announcement in Monday's Evening Times that the Orange Order in Scotland have lifted a ban on members entering Catholic churches. 

Earlier this week it was revealed that the decision had been taken by the top level of the Order in Scotland within the past month. 

Since its beginnings, those within The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland have been prohibited from entering the religious buildings.

However, within the past few weeks a decision has been taken by the organisation's leadership to remove this rule.

READ MORE: Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland lift ban on members entering Catholic Churches

Anti-sectarianism campaigners welcomed the move, with one member telling the Evening Times that "it could have a drastic affect on the organisation".

The issue was debated across the Irish Sea, with experts from both sides of the divide discussing the decision taken by The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland. 

Former Sinn Féin politician Daithí McKay told BBC Radio Ulster's Talkback programme: "I think it's important to put it in context, last year wasn't a great year for the Order in Scotland.

"There was an incident at a parade in Glasgow over the summer which triggered online petitions against marching in the area. The Order there recognises that it has an image problem and that it is being overtaken by a more secular Scotland, what is seen as a more liberal Church of Scotland, and you have Scottish nationalism on the rise as well.

"They actually held a conference in October of last year on the issue of modernisation. So they recognise that to survive, to continue to have members coming up through the ranks, they need to change their image, which is seen in Scotland very much as being anti-Catholic. So they are directly trying to deal with that." 

Politicians in Scotland have also spoken out following the announcement. 

Glasgow SNP MSP James Dornan was one of those who was happy with the decision. 

He wrote: "Very encouraging move from the Orange Order. Let’s hope it’s a sign of things to come."

However, fellow politicians Peter Grant said: "Odd that an organisation that has always said it is non-sectarian banned its members from going into places of worship used by one religious sect but not any others."

Those reacting to the Evening Times piece also shared their thoughts.

Scott Bell said: "Can someone please remind me, it is 2019 we are living in?"

Jim Jones wrote: "Any move that can reduce help reduce bigotry and sectarianism should be applauded. I don't say this often (if ever) but well done the Orange Order."

Ronnie Johnston posted: I" was unaware there was such a ban but, if so, this is good news although it is a pity it took well into the 21st century to come about.

"There are folk of good intent on both sides and surely it is time we accept that there are some differences and leave it at that. There is no need for suspicion or hostility. We are all bairns o' Adam."

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