Fife Council is considering a motion which could see the removal of voting rights for Church representatives. Watch here or below.

Mary Caldwell, the Catholic school representative on Fife Council's Education and Children's Services committee, said: “Having the vote allows me to make a democratic and positive contribution to the decision-making process on important educational matters which impact outcomes for the young people in our Catholic schools in Fife.

The retired headteacher added: “I know I am acting on behalf of the Catholic families in Fife – on behalf of the parents who choose to send their children to the 14 Catholic schools here."

The Archdiocese has launched a campaign in which people can contact their local councillor to voice their concern.

Archbishop Cushley explained: “Church Representatives ensure that faith communities have a say in decisions pertaining to faith schools.

“I think that’s fair and reasonable. They cannot do this effectively without the right to vote.

"It's thanks to Mary and representatives on education committees in areas across the Archdiocese that we can continue to work with councils in a spirit of openness, transparency and friendship."

If you wish to add your voice to our campaign, please pick up a postcard from your local parish to complete and send to your councillor.