Home / Crime and Justice / Dog in Cafe Lawsuit Rocks Scottish Island
Dog in Cafe Lawsuit Rocks Scottish Island
24 Aug
Summary
- Daughter of Hollywood star sues cafe for dog access rights.
- Legal aid funding for the case sparks public funding debate.
- Community cafe faces significant legal costs and appeals for donations.
A legal battle has erupted on the island of Great Bernera in the Western Isles, where Claire Kellerman, daughter of Oscar-nominated actress Sally Kellerman, is suing the Bernera Community Association (BCA). Kellerman claims discrimination for being denied entry to the local cafe with her dog, though it is unclear if the animal is a support dog.
The case, reportedly funded by legal aid, has prompted local MSP Donald MacKinnon to question the use of taxpayer money. He urged the Scottish Legal Aid Board (Slab) to reconsider its funding, citing the significant financial impact on the small charitable organization running the community centre.
The BCA, a volunteer-run charity established in 1973, stated it was inappropriate to comment as the matter is before the court. They emphasized their focus on serving the community and noted a pressing need for donations due to accumulating legal costs.
Previously, the lawsuit had incorrectly named the Bernera Community Development Trust, which has no responsibility for the cafe. The trust highlighted the stress and costs incurred during the mistaken legal action, questioning why it suffered when not involved.
