Strathclyde Police deny newspaper claims
An un-named article in Scotland on Sunday claimed that privately the police wished to smash the marxist, Irish Republican Green Brigade. The article obviously overdosed on journalistic licence with the police using their facebook page to clarify matters.
Their statement read: “This weekend an article appeared in Scotland on Sunday that suggested that Strathclyde Police are out to ‘smash the Green Brigade.’ We would like to make it clear that these comments do not reflect the view of the Force.
“Our primary concern is to ensure that all fans of all clubs enjoy going to the football safely. Those fans who misbehave or cause offence to others will, of course, be subject to Police action.
“Football is our national sport. It has the power to inspire kids and bring people together. We want that to be the story. We’re sure that you do too.”
With Alex Salmond’s SNP government determined to railroad through new Offensive Behaviour legislation something of a media frenzy has been built up over the Celtic support with The Green Brigade a favoured target for criticism.
News that the SPL had looked into claims of unnaceptable conduct attracted bizzare coverage with claims that Celtic had been let off the hook and escaped punishment for sectarian singing!
Responding to that interpretation of the SPL investigation the club released a statement today saying: “It has been reported today by a number of news organisations that Celtic has been ‘cleared’ or has ‘escaped punishment’ for ‘sectarian chanting’.
“While the Club accepts that the SPL had looked at an issue concerning unacceptable conduct, at no time has Celtic been investigated by the SPL or any other body for sectarian chanting.
“Clearly, it is important that this matter is clarified. Celtic will be contacting the organisations in question to ensure that such reporting is corrected.”
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