A group of church ministers have called for same-sex marriage legislation to be strengthened to “protect” public sector workers.
More than 50 people have signed an open letter to Health Secretary Alex Neil, saying they have “deep concerns” about the implications for individuals who disapprove of gay weddings.
The signatories also said they were “far from convinced” by reassurances that churches will not be forced to marry people against their will.
The Scottish Parliament is expected to approve the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Bill today.
The Equality Network campaign group said the vote would be a “defining moment” for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Scotland – 34 years after homosexuality was decriminalised.
Mr Neil said it was right that same sex couples should be able to freely express their commitment through getting married. “We have always maintained at the heart of this issue there is one simple fact, a marriage is about love,” he said. “We’ve taken account of those faiths who would not wish to take part in same sex marriage, and the bill fully recognises and protects celebrants who do not wish to take part.” Religious leaders said additional safeguards were needed for individuals and organisations who opposed changes to the existing marriage laws.
The letter says: “Our primary concern relates to the likely impact of the bill on public sector employees, a great many of whom worship in our churches.
“Specifically, will people working in the public sector who express the view that marriage can only ever be between a man and a woman be disciplined, or even have their suitability for employment questioned on the basis that their views are deemed incompatible with their employer’s commitment to equality and diversity?
“Likewise, will young Christians seeking employment in professions such as teaching or the police find themselves at a disadvantage in the recruitment process should they express their opposition to same-sex marriage?”
The group said it would provide reassurance if the bill made clear that the “current view of marriage” was respected and contained a promise that the charitable status of churches which refused to hold gay weddings would not be affected.