In an unusually strongly worded statement the SFA, SPL and SFL have all condemned the decision of Category One referees to strike this weekend.
With no statement issued by the referees outlining their grievance it has been a difficult issue for the football authorities to deal with.
The non-stop media appearances of Stuart Dougal and Kenny Clark turned the dispute into a farce but today the authorities have decided to push ahead with Plan B and the recruitment of foreign referees.
With the regulations and constitution of the ‘ref’s union’ unclear SFA Chief Stewart Regan has left to door open for individual referees to reconsider their position and make themselves available for appointment.
Regan said: “This is a very sad day for Scottish football.After further positive talks yesterday, and having received the backing of both the SPL and the SFL, I felt that we had shown our commitment to the refereeing fraternity and that they had recognised that substantial progress had been made.
“If this withdrawal of labour goes ahead it will be the fans, clubs, sponsors and media partners who will suffer and that cannot be good for the game in this country.
“I would urge the Category 1 referees to reconsider their decision and, having benefited from the wave of sympathy for their current situation, plus the offer of affirmative action, realise the potential impact of their actions.”
Neil Doncaster, SPL Chief Executive: “It is deeply regrettable that Scottish match officials will not be taking charge of Clydesdale Bank Premier League games this weekend.
“The SPL is sympathetic towards referees and the criticism they have received in recent weeks but the way to address concerns is through dialogue, not to walk away from the situation.”
David Longmuir, SFL Chief Executive: “The SFL is extremely disappointed that despite our efforts nothing could be done to avert the course of action about to be taken by our referee colleagues this weekend.
“Throughout the last few days we have tried to find a solution for both the short and long term which would have reinforced our existing support and admiration for all Scottish referees.
“Our commitment to that is unchanged. However, as a result of the action planned for this weekend, many of our clubs and supporters will feel let down.”
Why leave all the talking to mouthpieces Clark and Dougal?
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I see Dallas made peace pact and was told no way
Yep, and if this ‘pact’ that was proposed is indeed true if will be explosive if the truth outs, and it will.
Disciplinary hearings re emailgate are to start at 5pm. Eyes peeled and ears opened, this could very well be the beginning of the end……