THE CHRISTIAN-run bakery at the centre of the ‘gay cake’ row has received backing from a Fermanagh firm after a banner was erected outside the business pledging support for the bakery.
The Equality Commission brought a civil case against Ashers Baking Company after it refused to bake a cake with a pro-gay marriage slogan. The case ended earlier this week with judgement due to be issued at a later stage.
A large blue and white banner appeared on the front gates of Howard Allen Seeds in Tempo, an agriculture and equine business, that displays support for the Belfast bakery. It states, “Pray for Ashers Bakery. Support the freedom of conscience clause.”
The conscience clause is in reference to a DUP Private Member’s Bill that seeks to introduce the clause into equality law. It was drawn up by the DUP’s Paul Givan who wants to allow businesses to refuse to provide a service if it clashes with their religious beliefs.
However, when the Fermanagh Herald contacted Howard Allen Seeds for a comment and to confirm ownership of the banner they refused to comment saying that no one was available to speak to this newspaper.
Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA, Phil Flanagan, who lives in Tempo, said that local people are seeing the more humorous side of the poster.
He said: “What exactly this has to do with a company that sells baler twine and horse feed is beyond me.”
“My own view is that this proposed bill should be blocked and the 28 Sinn Féin MLAs, along with the support of Basil McCrea and Steven Agnew, have committed to do so.
“Most people in Tempo think it’s funny, they’re not offended by it. People see it that everyone has the right to express opinions but they do not have the right to discriminate which is what they (the DUP) are proposing to be allowed.
“Companies are entitled to express and support for any campaign and it’s a matter for them how they do it as long as it’s within the law. No one is taking it too seriously.”
While the banner appears on the firm’s gates, mystery still shrouds exactly who placed it there.
One local resident said it appeared overnight but that no one has claimed responsibility.
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