Celtic FC Enhances Fan Safety Measures Amid Policing Concerns in Old Firm Fixtures

Celtic Appoints Safety Consultants Following Fan Concerns

Celtic FC has taken proactive steps to address growing supporter concerns by appointing Fairhurst, a UK-wide health and safety consultancy, to review policing tactics during the recent Old Firm derby against Rangers. The move comes after multiple complaints from fans regarding incidents outside Celtic Park on 16 March.

Matchday Policing Controversy

• Police Scotland utilized Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, granting officers stop-and-search powers to detain individuals under "reasonable suspicion."
• 90 Celtic supporters were denied entry after refusing mandatory searches, with authorities confiscating pyrotechnics during the operation.
• Rangers secured a 3-2 victory, their first at Celtic Park since October 2020.

Club and Police Responses

Celtic stated they would liaise with Police Scotland to evaluate the events, emphasizing that "all supporters should feel safe attending matches." Ch Supt Stevie Dolan defended the policing strategy as "proportionate," citing containment tactics to manage disruption.

Enhanced Safety Protocols

• Fairhurst will collate fan feedback and open channels for additional testimonies.
• The club reaffirmed its collaboration with emergency services to uphold safety standards within the stadium.

"Our primary concern is supporter safety. We’re committed to ensuring fair treatment for everyone involved," Celtic’s statement read.

Ongoing Dialogue

Celtic plans further discussions with fan groups, other clubs, and law enforcement to prevent future incidents. Police Scotland has yet to issue a formal response.