The admission has come from the Dutch Emancipation Minister Ronald Plasterk (pictured), who said that two such organizations are already receiving state subsidies. The ‘ex-gay’ groups are controversial because critics say there is little evidence that the methods they use turn gay people into heterosexuals.

Plasterk recently announced he would give subsidies to Christian gay organisations with the goal of making homosexuality discussible in these circles. But a Dutch newspaper, De Pers, claims that these organisations work with therapists that are supposed to 'cure' homosexuals of their proclivity. They also only accept homosexuality when it is not actually practised.

One group, Refo Anders, is receiving 84,000 euros. "Homosexual feelings are okay. But we reject practicing homosexuals," chairman Johan Quist told De Pers. Dealing with homosexual feelings means either celibate living or becoming heterosexual, is also the view of Johan van de Sluis, board member of the Onze Weg (Our Way) foundation, which is receiving 50,000 euros.

Gay interests organisation COC chairman Wouter Neerings is astonished. "Minister Plasterk is normally a man of sound judgement. It looks like a political compromise with ChristenUnie."

In a reaction, Plasterk said: "These organisations have access to circles where there would otherwise be no homo-emancipation at all. Of course I do not support the aims completely, but they have taken important hurdles. For example, the recognition that there are homosexuals in Christian circles."



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