This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Sectarianism dealt another blow
26/02/2007
Ignorance will be no excuse for football-related bigotry - Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson warned today as she launched the next phase of a campaign to let hooligans and bullies know that abusive behaviour will lead to a ban from football grounds.
The 'Straight Red' campaign, jointly-funded by the Scottish Executive and the police, highlights the purpose of football banning orders, introduced to Scotland in September to stop bigots and thugs ruining the game for the majority of well-behaved fans. Since then one Order has been imposed and more than 100 banning orders are currently being pursued through the courts.
Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said:
"I am passionate about football, and those who sour the reputation of their clubs are a disgrace to us all. The police asked us for additional powers and we've provided them. Football banning orders are a significant tool to allow the authorities to help genuine fans to give bigots the boot. They represent a severe penalty for those who peddle hatred or engage in unruly and violent behaviour.
"The purpose of this campaign is to leave no doubt - violence, chants, taunts and songs of hatred are inexcusable and will be tackled. The time has come to reclaim our sports grounds and show the hooligans a straight red - one that could last a decade.
"I want to send a clear message that ignorance can be no excuse. The whistle has blown and abusive behaviour will lead hooligans and bigots straight to a ban."
Background:
Football banning orders were made available to Scotland's police and courts from September 1, 2006 and can ban abusive trouble-makers from games and associated flashpoints, across the UK and abroad, for up to ten years.
It will cost £30,000 to deliver the second phase of the campaign. ACPOS/Strathclyde Police have agreed to provide £10,000. The Executive will contribute £20,000.
The campaign includes radio adverts, posters and branded beer-mats.
The second phase of the campaign will run from February 26 to March 11, 2007.
For further information about Football Banning Orders go to www.footballbanningorders.com