TAL Blog on the subject. http://talfanzine.info/blog/2013/02/17/police-and-plc-harassment-of-green-brigade-continues/ Police and PLC Harassment of Green Brigade Continues Yesterday Celtic played Dundee United off the park with a stunning display of open and skillful football, the type of play that our club has become renowned for over many years. We won 6-2 and it could have easily been 12-2, the game was that one-sided with chances created by wave after wave of Celtic attacks. Unfortunately there was one group of supporters who were unable to watch one of our best performances of the season. They were the victims of a pre-planned operation by Strathclyde Police which included matching mugshots to faces as they were queuing up at the turnstiles and then processing fans through a further police cordon where they were searched and questioned with more being refused entry on spurious grounds. A banner depicting Zombies was deemed to be ‘offensive’ and disallowed by the police. The drums normally allowed into this section were also considered on this occasion to be beyond the pale. The police attitude was aggressive and unco-operative. These young supporters were treated like criminals by Strathclyde’s finest. This is the world of a Green Brigade member. Welcome to the Parkhead Police State. There was understandable disbelief among the group’s members at this treatment, most of them deciding to show solidarity with their banned and harassed colleagues by refusing to enter the ground. It meant that they missed a wonderful match, where they would no doubt have played their usual part in adding to the colour and noise, which despite the scoreline was somewhat lacking without the GB’s presence to lead it. Many other fans at that end of the ground also voted with their feet when they saw what was going on and boycotted the match in solidarity with the Green Brigade. With regard to accusations of an organised boycott, a leading member of the Green Brigade commented on The Huddle Board: “First off there was nothing planned about this. It was totally off the cuff and forced upon us. We turned up today like everyone else, only we were met with a welcoming committee at the turnstiles. We had one banner confiscated by police and lads threatened to hand over their details or face arrest. “The polis had a sheet with names and mugshots, as these lads entered the ground they were immediately removed and told they were banned. This is despite having no prior warning from the club about being banned and having no banning order. Honestly couldn’t tell you why this was happening but it certainly looks as if they’re upping their ante for some reason. “It looked as if the polis were directing things from outside, but them and stewards were saying they were following club orders re: bans. One steward also gave a heads up that the polis were after 3 arrests. “Even in spite of this most still went into the ground wanting to support the team, however, after seeing bodies being pulled as soon as they got through the turnstiles then why even bother? “Honestly scunnered. £500 a year for this?” What exactly is going on at Celtic Park? Why are the police and club hierarchy so hellbent on damaging this group of supporters and harassing them at every opportunity? For some of the answers to these questions I refer you to the previous blog In Defence of the Green Brigade, in which we speculated about the underlying political and commercial reasons for the social cleansing of the club’s support. The hypocrisy of the club’s board and chief executive is tangible. This is the same PLC board who seek to monetize and profit from the success of the GB’s displays and the wider impact of their songs and banners at every opportunity. Take for example the lorry loads of T-shirts that the club shift with the ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’ slogan, or the framed pictures being ordered from all over the world of the magnificent TIFO display organised by the Green Brigade before the Barca match. These are just two examples of where the club has cashed in on the popularity of the GB. Many Celtic supporters around the globe will be baffled that the group that creates such wonderful displays is the subject of harassment from the police at every match and every ground where Celtic play. The position of the club’s chief of security Ronnie Hawthorn must also be questioned. What exactly is the role of this ex-police ‘matchday commander’ in liaising with his former colleagues at Stratchclyde Police? Are the police and Celtic’s security team involved in any legally dubious methods of surveillance and data violations against our fans? Is the role of our security chief a duplicitous one? It may be time for the fans’ voices to be heard and perhaps the practice of employing former Strathclyde Police personnel as security advisers should be questioned and dispensed with. One thing is for sure, the actions of the police are at odds with their claims that they are trying to prevent potential disorder. If anything, their actions are more likely to create a serious incident of disorder at a football match than prevent it. Celtic fans must now consider what actions and sanctions they should apply against the club in order to show solidarity with the Green Brigade. I, for one, will not be buying any official club merchandise, either online or from the Celtic Superstore. My children will be disappointed but I will explain to them that the group that they enthuse over every time they see them are the same group of fans that the club are trying to silence and outlaw. Others on TAL’s facebook pages have intimated that they too will boycott official merchandise and publications such as the matchday programme and the Celtic View. It seems that only money talks at Celtic Park these days, so maybe if some of that money decided to take a walk the club might actually sit up and take notice of the fans’ concerns? This situation has now reached a tipping point. It’s time to stand up and be counted.
Fight fire with fire. The green brigade should video the treatment they receive and send it to the IPC. Scottish football is in dire need of an atmosphere at the grounds. If we keep sending away those who create an atmosphere it will be ****ing boring.
The atmosphere at Celtic park, while maybe not quite as vibrant, would be fine without the GB. It was in the past, they've not always been here. A young member of my family sits near them and has never got anything good to say about them. **** 'em.
Who says they are not getting convictions rebel? As a group they do things deemed illegal at football. It may be seemingly stupid things like standing. But if the club dont do something about it they lose permission to stage games etc. They arent being persecuted. They just as a group do things you shouldnt. Individually they may not seem serious crimes. But just because they sing songs doesnt mean they can break the rules. If they disagree with the rules breaking them is not the way to get them changed
I grew up in Armagh during the troubles super hooper. So I know a wee bit about that. Thanks for the lesson though. Regardless my thoughts are the good the gb brring doesnt excuse their behaviour at times. A lot that they stand for invites a ned element I regret
The last GB's press release stated that there had been no convictions. I have heard nothing to change that. What rules have these individuals broken? Not telling these people what rules they have broken is not the way to get them to stop indulging in behaviour they deem not to be acceptable. Groups like the GB at Celtic and the Union Bares at Ibrox do get extra attention focused on them. Certainly with the GB this attention does not appear a proportionate response. Like I say, I am inclined to support them but I would like the full story. It appears to me that you have drawn a conclusion because you are inclined not to support them. I think that is unfair.
Standing continually, blocking stair ways/exits (mainly due to lads joining them as their ticket isn't for their end) setting of flares, drunken behaviour (neds are attracted to them). Lots of reports of general loutish behaviour from those whe sit near them Smoking etc. You can't be arrested for **** all rebel. If they are then there would be uproar and civil action. I'm not saying they are the worlds worst criminals, but they bring a lot of the trouble on themselves. The club cannot turn a blind eye to continued petty offences. A high percentage of petty offences coming from that end will lead to increased police presence and action on that end. Simple.
You seem to know more about what these individuals have done than they do. Evidently you can get arrested for **** all if they can't make a charge stick to anyone at all.
God what I am reading today really makes me feel that the Glasgow police haven't Got the man power to control the G B. they should bring in the Paras. It is really crazy that the G B can stand, Oh! ! My God they sing and chant as well. Now Setting off flares, how many from Section 111 this season. None or maybe one. Last season at Hampden flare went off at Celtic end Police trampled over women and children to try to get to the culprits. At the same time a flare went off at the Aberdeen end, police smiled. Excessive police presence always leads to youths and young men retaliating. Surely you did that yourself in Armagh 60 years ago When you were a youth. If the Glasgow Police want to watch perfect policing they should come over here and watch the softy, softy approach the PSNI take with the flag protesters, almost invisible. Oh I forgot the Glasgow Police already do that nearly every week with the Orange Parades. There is something seriously wrong if Celtic cannot talk to the G B and Marshall them with Celtic's stewards. I cannot believe that couldn't happen.
Harry what is wrong with you today, the G B are Celtic fans, maybe 30 or 40 or more years younger than us. They have youthful excitement and bring a buzz about the place. They make Celtic Park a happier place during matches. OK maybe an odd one steps out of line from time to time. Surely it shouldn't be beyond the wit of Celtic to marshal and control them. Why should Celtic fans make mountains out of our most vocal fans who will become old foggies like you and me in the future. Harry I have never disagreed with you before, you are now sounding like these ones on here that would still be expecting the jungle to still be there.
Sportscene after match discussion didn't even mention the penalty!! From a program this season that has gone out its way to discuss dodgy penalties
Harry I think the decision on Saturday was the worse this season. The ref seen What nobody else seen, Matthews committing a foul. I could understand not seeing contact, but actually seeing what didn't happen. Harry it always was, it still is and always will be , world without end. ( Celtic cheated with penalty decisions).
If the GB statement wasn't he whole truth, this isn't either. Celtic are not the honest brokers in this. They cannot be.nif people are getting one game bans off their season books, then it is the club doing it. Lennon is either telling lies or he is being fed them. [video=youtube_share;qga5afCHkjs]http://youtu.be/qga5afCHkjs[/video] from Celtic Football Club Statement By: Newsroom Staff on 18 Feb, 2013 17:00 OVER the course of the weekend, the Club has been made aware of further reports and allegations concerning the ill-treatment of supporters by police at Celtic Park. Celtic Football Club will not tolerate any unjust or inappropriate treatment of our supporters. The health, safety and well-being of our supporters is of paramount importance. It is important that we deal in facts: We have continually asked our supporters to report any incidents of ill-treatment or harassment directly to the Club and our absolute commitment has been that each incident or complaint will be investigated. In addition, in December last year, it was agreed with our supporters’ groups that any such complaints could also be made through the Fans Against Criminalisation Group (The Celtic Supporters´ Association, The Green Brigade, The Affiliation of Registered Celtic Supporters´ Clubs, the Association of Irish Celtic Supporters´ Clubs and The Celtic Trust). Click HERE for more details. Since December last year, we have received two complaints directly to the Club, both of which have been addressed. As a reminder, should any supporter wish to make any complaint in relation to any form of ill-treatment or harassment, then they can do so by using the FAC link/email or contact the Club directly. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Furthermore, Celtic has now proposed that, together with its supporters´ groups, we establish a Complaints Panel consisting of supporter and Club representatives. This group will administer any complaints and will provide feedback to supporters. Accusations suggesting that the Club is in some way involved in targeting supporters are ludicrous. These accusations have absolutely no foundation whatsoever and, of course, are very disappointing. We have enjoyed an exciting season so far and the Club is in fantastic shape on and off the field. Our supporters have, of course, played a huge role in this. What would be the Club’s motivation for being involved in activity which targets or victimises supporters? It is simply not true. It does not make sense. Celtic has worked very hard over many years to ensure a positive relationship with its many supporters´ groups. We are delighted that we work together so regularly in the best interests of Celtic. The health and safety of our supporters is our absolute priority and clearly the Club takes its responsibility in this area extremely seriously. In this regard, however, there is also a need for all supporters to ensure the highest standards of behaviour in order to create a safe environment at Celtic Park and other stadia in which to watch and enjoy football. We are pleased to outline the Club’s position on this matter and are delighted to work with our supporters to ensure that any needs or concerns are addressed.
This thing has gone too far, it is in danger of getting out of hand both sides are now speaking at each other instead of to each other. Both sides the Celtic Club and the G B should get off their high horses and talk directly to each other. After all both claim to be on the one side. The joint aim should be to remove the need and then remove the visible presence of the police. All the Celtic fans and the club should Work together towards that aim. I am told that a former Head of the Strathclyde Police , or at least someone who held a very Senior Position in that force holds The Position Of Security Head at Celtic. A bad choice, surely he has sufficient pension to do him and in these bad economic times someone else at least as efficient would be more in need of the money. I cannot remember any demonstrations of even handed ness in dealing with Sectarian or racist singing at Ibrox . Any impartiality in dealing with Orange Parades in Glasgow as compared to Republican marches . I cannot see what he has done to gain the respect and confidence of the Celtic fans.
Cosmetic exercise? A SPECIALIST footie cop who monitors Celtic fans has been pulled off his duties — amid claims he described his job as “pest control”. Top brass are probing anti-hooliganism officer Tommy McCrindle after the jibe reportedly appeared on his Facebook site. Under the “Works At” category on his profile page, the officer appeared to have written: “Fume-a -Pest & Termite Control”. And following a complaint from the club, Strathclyde Police hauled the married dad-of-two off frontline Hoops duties. Last night Scottish Tory chief whip John Lamont said: “It is wrong for an officer to refer to anyone they are responsible for policing in these terms.” And a Celtic spokesman revealed: “We have raised the matter with the police and believe it will be addressed.” PC McCrindle, 37, from Kilmarnock, serves in the Football Co-ordination Unit for Scotland — set up by the SNP to police hooliganism and bigotry laws brought in last year. He was assigned this season to watch the Green Brigade, a controversial section of hardline fans who were described by Celts gaffer Neil Lennon as “an important part of the club.” But the supporters say PC McCrindle is among a group of “bullying” officers who follow them “week in, week out”. The officer has posted Facebook snaps of himself working at Barcelona’s Nou Camp stadium during Celtic’s Champions League tie last year and was at the side’s Euro clash with Swedish side Helsingborgs in August. In a statement the Green Brigade claim he “goaded” supporters at Parkhead on Saturday. Celtic said they’re looking into the allegations, adding: “We will not tolerate any unjust or inappropriate treatment of our supporters.” Strathclyde Police said: “A Facebook page allegedly belonging to an officer has come to our attention after claims of offensive postings. “The officer will have no direct contact with the Celtic support during the inquiry.” PC McCrindle was unavailable for comment and the Facebook page has been deleted. [email protected] Ads by Google Equity Release Calculator Unlock The Cash Tied Into Your Home Over 55? Use Our Calculator Today! www.Keyrs.co.uk/Equity-Calculator Read more: http://www..co.uk/sol/homepage/feed...control-taunts-on-Facebook.html#ixzz2LKQwBsyu
So the club take some action, surly a positive step. The club have stepped in when asked by the GB to do so. Now lets see if the GB do as the club ask and sit the **** down! The club are looking at safe standing and other ideas for the future. They have already been warned about safety certificates and unless the club are seen to be trying to enforce the stadium rules on safety they won't have a leg to stand on when they ask to trial such an idea. GB’s turn to do something to help build a bridge between them and the club.
Sadly, I've endured this on occasions when sitting near them with friends. It's the blocking of stairwells, exits and seats that annoys me the most. On almost every occasion we've hads to leave our seats and sit elsewhere. 2 of my friends have even moved their season tickets further away. It's not that we haven't had a few before the game or that others enjoying themselves is a probem, it's when it encroaches on other fans who are there, who have paid to sit there and don't want wee druken ned fannies continually in their way. Plus the stewards are completely ****ing useless. Personally, i go to watch Celtic play football, but for a fair few it's the pull of the GB. Each to their own and aw' that
