19/05/2015

Judge Rules Ashers Bakery Guilty Of Discrimination

A judge has found a Christian-run bakery guilty of discrimination over its refusal to make a cake with a slogan supporting gay marriage.

Ashers Baking Company was asked by Gareth Lee to make a cake with Sesame Street characters Bert and Ernie with a motto in support of gay marriage.

Judge Isobel Brownlie said that Mr Lee has been discriminated against on the grounds of sexual orientation.

Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness tweeted: "Asher's bakery judgement a good result for equality. Gay people have for far too long been discriminated against. We & the law on their side."

Sinn Féin MLA Caitríona Ruane said: "This is a clear judgement from the court that the company discriminated against gay activist Gareth Lee on the grounds of sexual orientation and political beliefs.

"This is the right decision and confirms our view that everyone should be treated fairly and with equality.

"It is a good day for equality and a good day for everyone in our society."

However DUP MLA for North Antrim, David McIlveen, tweeted: "Utterly sickened that a Christian owned business has been hauled over the coals for refusing to promote something that is not legal in NI."

(CD/JP)

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