P&O hits out after its name is hijacked for 'racist' chant

Published on Monday 22 December 2008 21:02

A MAJOR ferry line has criticised Rangers fans after its name was hi-jacked for a new version of the controversial Famine Song.

P&O Irish Sea hit out ahead of this Saturday's Old Firm clash at Ibrox, after learning the offensive lyrics were appearing on the internet and on posters around Glasgow. The firm – which carries fans of both clubs to Scotland from Ireland on matchdays – reacted angrily at the new words: "Why don't you go home? Why don't you go home? The famine is over, P&O takes you home."

The song, which has infuriated Celtic supporters, was described as racist by Parkhead chairman Dr John Reid, prompting a war of words between him and his Ibrox opposite number Sir David Murray.

James Esler, marketing manager for P&O Irish Sea said: "We have very strong relationships with both Celtic and Rangers and their respective supporters clubs.

"We have had a zero tolerance policy for any sort of sectarian activity on board our vessels."