SENIOR figures from Inverclyde Council and local police met with local Muslim faith leaders to discuss matters affecting the community.

Representatives from the Inverclyde Muslim Centre in Greenock met with Provost of Inverclyde, Drew McKenzie, council leader Robert Moran, council chief executive Louise Long, police chief inspector David Doherty, and superintendent Trish Robertson.

During the talks, the various representatives discussed the issue of tackling prejudice against groups of all faiths and none and the importance of fostering positive community relations and promoting Inverclyde as an inclusive place for all.

Mohammed Akhtar, from the Inverclyde Muslim Centre, said: “We are grateful to the council and police for meeting with myself and some of our congregation to discuss issues we have, particularly around prejudice, and also to explore opportunities for greater partnership working.

“Inverclyde is generally a safe and welcoming place for all and we are happy to support that positive message of inclusivity.”

The meeting was held in the Greenock Municipal Buildings on Thursday 30 January 2025 and is part of regular discussions between the council and various faith groups.

Councillor Moran said: “Inverclyde is a multi-cultural place and we meet with leaders from all faiths and none in our community on a regular basis to identify issues being faced by their members and look to see how we can collectively address those issues, as well as looking at how we can work more closely with them in the interests of making Inverclyde an even better place to live, work, visit, and do business.

“I found the discussions with Mr Akhtar and members of his congregation extremely useful in gaining an insight into the challenges faced by the local Muslim community and potential opportunities to help improve people’s lives.

“It’s also important to highlight that Inverclyde is a safe and welcoming place for all and any forms of prejudice should not and will not be tolerated.”

Provost McKenzie added: “Inverclyde has a good reputation of being caring and compassionate place open to all who live, work, visit, and do business.

“We have people from a variety of backgrounds and of different faiths and none and I am proud to stand alongside anyone, including representatives from the local Muslim community, to promote inclusivity and call out any form of prejudice.”