There is no place for sectarianism or racism in sport in Scotland. That is the message from the SNP government who say they are committed to tackling the problem via their 'One Scotland' many Cultures' campaign.

The Scottish government were responding to concerns articulated by the Celtic League who had urged the Scottish government and Strathclyde Police to be more pro-active in tackling racism in sport (see link below).

"Equalities, Social Inclusion and Sports Directorate Sport Division The Scottish Government

Our reference: 2008/0038931OR

Dear Mr Tal-e-bot

Thank you for your letter of 1st October to Stewart Maxwell, Minister for Communities and Sport, in which you express your concerns about inappropriate chanting at football matches in Scotland. As this Division of the Scottish Government has general responsibility for policy issues pertaining to sport and physical recreation in Scotland, your letter has been passed to me to reply.

Thank you for your comments. I should advise you that singing and chanting at football matches by supporters is a matter for the clubs, police, and the football authorities to address and I suggest you raise your concerns directly with them.

The Scottish Government has made it clear that sectarianism, racism, religious intolerance and all other forms of discrimination have no place in modern Scotland. Scottish ministers will continue with a comprehensive programme of work to tackle all forms of racism and are committed to promoting race equality across the work of Government.

In recent years concerted efforts have been made to tackle sectarianism by football authorities, clubs, supporters' groups, campaigning groups and the police. These efforts have certainly made an impact on the right against sectarianism and should be applauded. However, we cannot be complacent, the fact remains sectarianism is still deeply engrained in many areas of Scottish society and it is time to eradicate it from Scottish football. It is for this reason that the Scottish Government will work in partnership with the Scottish FA and external partners to continue efforts in tackling bigoted behaviour and creating the truly multicultural and multi faith Scotland that people aspire to and deserve.

To build on this work and ensure the emphasis continues to tackle these issues, the Government pronounced on 9 October the establishment of a new Government and football partnership, 'Promoting Citizenship through Football'. The initial focus of the partnership will be to tackle football related sectarianism, racism and other forms of inappropriate behaviour, which will include the continued unacceptable chanting at football matches. The new partnership confirms our commitment to eradicate this particularly offensive form of conduct at football matches in Scotland.

Furthermore, the Government is fully committed to building on the good work of the One Scotland campaign in promoting the diversity of Scotland and in tackling racism within our society. The 'One Scotland' many cultures' campaign has continued to raise awareness of the negative effects on individuals and society. It also promotes Scotland's multicultural society and the benefits it brings.

Yours sincerely

Joyce Hunnam"

Related article on Celtic News at:

(voir le site)

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League 22/11/08

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