Pars use Government scheme to 'ensure sustainability'

Chairman Ross McArthur has confirmed that most of the club's players, its coaching staff and some administration employees are affected, but stated that all staff will continue to receive their full basic salary.

It comes after supporters, led by The Pars Supporters Trust, launched an initiative to raise cash to meet a £40,000 shortfall in income between and April and May.

The 'Support the Pars' campaign has already exceeded £35,000, and McArthur paid tribute to the "outstanding generosity" shown by supporters.

In a statement, he said: "During these difficult and uncertain times, DAFC has taken the decision to furlough a number of its staff including the coaching staff, the majority of our players and some administration staff for the foreseeable future. Our club will ensure all staff receive their full basic salary during this period.

"This is to ensure the long term viability and sustainability of our club and protect our loyal and hard working staff who have contributed so much to DAFC over many years.

"We continue to operate with a small number of core staff, to keep the club functioning.

"I would also like to take this opportunity once again to thank our supporters most sincerely for their outstanding generosity and support during these challenging times.

"Myself and the rest of the DAFC Board are truly humbled by the donations received to date for the Support The Pars campaign, and the ongoing support of the Centenary Club Lifeline. It is not only extremely valuable but greatly appreciated. I would also like to thank the respective committees who are working hard behind the scenes with both initiatives.

"In addition, I would like to mention our media team who are all doing a sterling job of keeping our stakeholders engaged with our club at this time.

"Not only are the fundraising efforts greatly appreciated by the DAFC Board, but that is also true of our coaching and playing staff, who in ordinary circumstances would be keen to express their thanks personally.

"However, to comply fully with the rules on furloughed workers they are not allowed to undertake any work on behalf of our club or get involved in any revenue raising activity. Hence the reason why they cannot express their support in person to you all.

"I intend to keep our supporters fully up to date over the course of the next few weeks when more information comes to hand, but once again my sincere thanks to everyone who has already offered their generous support to date.

"Please look after yourself and your family, stay safe and take care.

"Hopefully, we can all be watching football being played at East End Park safely in time."

It comes as SPFL clubs prepare to vote on proposals to terminate the current campaign in the Championship, League One and League Two.

If the vote passes, Dundee United would be promoted from the Championship, Partick Thistle would be relegated, and Raith Rovers would be promoted from League One.