Report to the People
Listening to the Fans
Last week saw something which is sadly all too rare in Scotland – a week of European football.
I know, of course, that this is an issue which rouses strong passions on both sides. For every woman who is delighted to have the house to herself for an evening of Milk Tray and Ally McBeal, is one who writes to ITV, furiously demanding to know why Coronation Street isn’t on until half past ten.
But, as we congratulate Celtic for their effort, if not the result, commiserate with Kilmarnock and Hibs, and look forward to Rangers’ trip to Warsaw on Thursday, spare a thought for the loyal fans.
Spending much of their spare cash and free time following their teams across Europe, true supporters are the backbone of Scottish football. But their unbending fidelity, and seemingly unlimited wallets, are not always rewarded with gratitude.
Football clubs are not, to be fair, famous for putting fans first.
From away strips which change every year, to above inflation price rises, to travel club "promotions", it seems that some clubs cannot resist the temptation to regard their captive market as a personal piggy bank.
Of course, anyone who followed the campaign to save Morton, or any of the other crisis clubs, knows the real contribution fans make. Those who paid the players, cleared the pitch, lobbied Parliament and stood on the terraces watching defeat, after defeat, after defeat undoubtedly earned the right to be respected and listened to by a club which, but for them, would not exist.
This issue returned to the Scottish Parliament last week, with the Education, Culture and Sport Committee considering a petition from the East of Scotland Supporters Association. The petition requests that Parliament considers how to promote supporters’ participation in the decision making process – suggesting schemes such as "supporters direct" and football partnerships.
Given our recent experience with Morton, I am confident that many local people will have a view on this issue. I have spoken to the Committee member in charge of compiling the report on the petition, Glasgow Shettleston MSP, Frank McAveety, who is very keen to come to Greenock to meet and talk with all those involved in the campaign.
Given the intense passion, great ideas and strong views which characterised the fight for Morton, I know Frank’s visit will be well worth it – we might even need to make it all ticket.
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