The National Secular Society is underwriting a funding drive to try and open Lewis Sports Centre on Sundays.
Families into Sport for Health (FiSH) group launched an internet crowdfunding appeal
after the comhairle voted against testing out seven-
The council stresses Sabbath observance is not the reason why councillors voted against seven day opening.
Councillors said the bid was not feasible due to the lack of staff willing to work as well as costs, estimated up to £17,000, at a time when council services are under financial pressure.
The National Secular Society (NSS) said the attempt by “religious fundamentalists on the Western Isles of Scotland to stop families using a swimming pool on the Sabbath is not the first time the local council... has imposed its religious dogmatism on the whole community.”
With 24 hours to go it was looking doubtful if the high profile campaign would gather sufficient support to hit its target £11,400.
The NSS said it intervened and paid the outstanding amount to “ensure success” for the crowdfunding initiative.
Pauline Matterson of FiSH said: "We are delighted to receive the support of the National Secular Society who recognise that the FiSH campaign for Sunday opening of ISL [sports centre] has been persistently thwarted on religious grounds.
"FiSH has worked respectfully within the council's processes and procedures for the last decade in raising the issue of Sunday opening.
“While FiSH is a health focused, community organisation, the Western Isles has a history of Sabbath observance, and some councillors have stated that the issue of Sunday opening is one with religious connotations.”
She added: “Prior to the introduction of the Equality Act in 2010, the local council stated religion as a reason for the absence of Sunday operations. Recently, it has stated the reason for not opening is financial.
"FiSH is pleased to help the council overcome their stated financial shortfall. The 1,550 plus members of FiSH and other supporters are hopeful that this financial contribution will be treated in the same manner as other local groups who were successful in their request for additional week day hours."
Alistair McBay, the National Secular Society's spokesperson for Scotland, said, "We are delighted to be able to support these families in the Western Isles and their health initiative.
“As secularists, we have no objection to Sabbatarians staying indoors on Sunday and observing the Sabbath according to their custom but they need to understand that not all islanders share their religious beliefs. The local council now has no option but to open the leisure facility for the trial year.”
Sports centre Sunday opening internet appeal reaches target
13 December 2016
