THE HEAD of Scotland's Orange Order has said he "doesn't see sectarianism" in Scotland ahead of the parades due to take place in Glasgow tomorrow. 

Jim McHarg - who is the grand master of the organisation - added that in the last 200 years of marches through the city, there has been "very little trouble" from participants. 

Thousands of Orangemen and women and followers are expected to march through the streets tomorrow in the largest Orange event to take place since lockdown was lifted.

Mr McHarg told BBC Scotland: "For 200 years, there have been parades in this city with very, very little trouble, if that's the right terminology."

He added: "I don't see sectarianism in this country.

"I would say there's a form of bigotry, you might see 90-minute bigotry at football matches or whatever."

His comments come as one of Scotland's top police officers said that he is “surprised by the level of sectarianism” in Scotland.

Glasgow Times:

Deputy Chief Constable Will Kerr, who worked in Northern Ireland for 27 years, revealed it is time for Scotland to take heed of the problem.

He added that it is "not unique" to the Orange Order in Glasgow.

He told the broadcaster: “It's not unique to the Orange Order in Glasgow in any way, shape or form.

"Sectarianism is a problem in Scotland and I've been surprised at the level of it in some parts.

"There's a need to move beyond defining it and talking about it and doing something about it.”

The group has organised more than 30 processions from across the city, converging in the city centre and Glasgow Green.

Ahead of the march, Glasgow's leading police officer, Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland, said his officers will not tolerate offensive behaviour, hate crimes or drunkness and disorder. 

Glasgow Times:

He said: “Police Scotland is a rights-based organisation that puts our values of integrity, fairness, respect and a commitment to upholding human rights at the heart of everything we do.

“This means we are committed to supporting the human rights of individuals and groups who wish to assemble, balanced against the rights of the wider community and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

"We are asking all those attending the County Grand Orange Lodge of Glasgow processions, either as a participant or supporter, to do so safely, responsibly and respectfully.

"We would urge the large majority who behave in the right way and know there is no place for poor behaviours or hate, to influence those around you to ensure the day is remembered for the right reasons, and passes peacefully."

The Greater Glasgow Police Divison's operation for the event will be prioritising public safety.