Ivana Bacik (Independent)

The definition of religion is very broad in its terms, which might make it easier for a prosecution to be instituted. The definition of religion in section 36(4) states what it does not include as follows:

(4) In this section "religion" does not include an organisation or cult---

(a) the principal object of which is the making of profit, or

(b) that employs oppressive psychological manipulation---

(i) of its followers, or

(ii) for the purpose of gaining new followers.

It clearly leaves wide open the possibility of all sorts of groupings of persons-----