"In 2014 Scotland is taking centre stage in global terms as host of the Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup, Homecoming Scotland and MTV Europe Awards," said Robison, who is also Minister for Equality.

"This provides us with a unique opportunity to welcome the world and also showcase our country's many great strengths to a truly massive audience.

"Scotland is already a world leader on LGBT equality and I am delighted to announce that to further boost these credentials the Scottish Government is providing almost £25,000 (€30,000/$42,000) to support Pride House during Games time.

"Through a programme of partner events and activities led by LEAP Sports Scotland, Pride House will provide a warm welcome to Scotland's LGBT community and visitors from near and far during Games time as well as creating a legacy for the future.

"As both Minister for the Commonwealth Games and for Equality, I am delighted to announce the venue for Pride House in Glasgow's Merchant City.

"This is a central, convenient, and visible location right beside Commonwealth House and which will be at the heart of Glasgow 2014."

The Pride House will hope to provide an opportunity to help tackle homophobia in sport, whilst also providing a welcoming place to view the competitions and enjoy the events and cultural programmes planned around the Games ©Getty Images



The Pride House will also provide an opportunity to help tackle homophobia in sport as well as learn about LGBT sports and build closer relationships with mainstream sport.

The house will be run by LEAP Sport Scotland which is supported by the international coalition of LGBT sport and human rights groups, Pride House International.

The group has already been responsible for houses at the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Vancouver, in Warsaw at 2012 UEFA European Football Championships and London for the 2012 Olympics, and believes the addition of the House in Glasgow is a huge step in the right direction for the LGBT community.

"Pride House is an important addition to the Glasgow 2014 programme, and will offer a programme of inclusive sport, cultural and social events, with a number of partners and collaborators already lining up to take part," said Hugh Torrance, chair of LEAP Sports Scotland

"2014 has already been a historic year for LGBT equality in Scotland, and the support of the Scottish Government sends an important message about our country's commitment to equality in sport.

"LEAP Sports Scotland have been working on this initiative since 2012, and are delighted to see such a growth in support."

Besides the Scottish Government funding for the Pride House, the National Lottery funded Celebrate programme has also awarded it £9,960 (€12,061/$16,577).

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
January 2014: Pride House International "impressed" by reaction to global solidarity appeal ahead of Sochi 2014
December 2013: Pride House International calls on groups around globe to hold events during Sochi 2014
October 2013: Pride House International turns to National Olympic Committees for support during Sochi 2014
August 2013: Gay groups call on Rogge to set up IOC Pride House as protest against new Russian laws
March 2012: Judge bans Sochi 2014 gay Pride House claiming it would offend "public morality"