ALBA: TACKLE RACISM IN SPORT SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT URGED

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The Celtic League has urged the Scottish government and Strathclyde Police to be more proactive in tackling racism in sport. The move comes after a lack-lustre response from the Scottish

Cathal Ó Luain Par Celtic League le 6/10/08 1:35

The Celtic League has urged the Scottish government and Strathclyde Police to be more proactive in tackling racism in sport. The move comes after a lack-lustre response from the Scottish government to anti-Irish racism displayed by football fans at a match last month (See below):

"Minister for Communities and Sport Scotland

Dear Minister Stewart Maxwell

Singing of racist chants at Scottish football matches

I feel compelled to write following the singing of racist songs and chants by Rangers Football Club supporters during their match against Celtic FC last month.

It is totally unacceptable for racism of any kind to be tolerated and should be routinely and utterly condemned, regardless of its source. We are aware that Strathclyde Police and Rangers FC (the club in question) have stated that the singing of the so-called Famine Song – which is directed at those in Scotland with Irish decent – is in breach of the Race Relations Act and therefore an offence, but we are concerned that Rangers have not fully condemned the song. The throwing of potatoes by Rangers supporters, another reference to the Irish famine, should not be tolerated either.

The Celtic League was also disappointed by what we felt was a weak response by the Scottish Government on this issue, especially in view of the fact that the Consul General in Edinburgh, Cliona Manahan, raised the matter with her Scottish counterparts, after the issue had been raised with the Irish Embassy in London.

As you will be aware the Celtic League is not in anyway associated with Celtic FC or any other football club or association, despite our name, but we do strongly support the stated ethos of Celtic FC in that racism and sectarianism should be condemned without fear or favour wherever they arise.

We sincerely hope that Rangers FC condemn the racism of their fans, so that football can get back on track as a major competitive sport.

Yours sincerely

Rhisiart Tal-e-bot General Secretary Celtic League

CC Stephen House, Chief Constable, Strathclyde Police Walter Smith, Manager, Rangers Football Club"

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