Officers from new unit to monitor Pars match
Published 2 Mar 2012 15:35
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THIS weekend will see the first round of fixtures taking place following the introduction of the Offensive Behaviour at football matches legislation, on Thursday.
Head of Fife Constabulary's Central Policing Division, Chief Superintendent John Pow, said, "Officers from Fife Constabulary and the Football Coordination Unit Scotland (FoCUS), will be available to enforce the legislation at the Dunfermline v Motherwell game on Saturday but we are not seeking to measure success in terms of number of people arrested and are hoping that the enactment of the legislation will encourage longer-term positive behaviour.
"For the overwhelming majority of people who attend football matches, this legislation will have no impact whatsoever as the vast majority of football supporters are only interested in watching football.
"It is recognised that the behaviour of supporters has changed for the better in recent times, however, there are still individuals intent on committing offences and promoting hatred in and around football grounds.
"This legislation will provide the opportunity to address these specific matters and help to ensure a safer and more enjoyable sporting event for all.
"The Scottish Football Association is asking every supporter to concentrate on football and this is a campaign that everyone can get behind.
"Football should not be an opportunity to sing songs that are offensive and promote hatred or a forum for threatening behaviour."
Pars safety manager Kenny Arnott said, "We are attaching a copy of the new legislation to every set of turnstyles so that everyone who comes to the ground can read it.
"Offensive behaviour has no place in football and we look forward to continuing to work closely with Fife Constabulary and wholeheartedly support the SFA's campaign to Focus on Football."
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