Fans’ address at Parliament

SUPPORTERS Direct Scotland hope that their new Fans’ Parliament initiative, launched yesterday at Holyrood, can give football enthusiasts a collective voice. The scheme, which will get underway with a series of roadshows across the country, has the backing of former First Minister henry McLeish.

“It has been a unique year for football fans in Scotland, with ordinary fans’ voices being heard loud and clear in a way they’ve never been heard, or listened to, before,” said McLeish. “The Fans’ Parliament will provide a platform for fans to continue the debate in the knowledge that these opinions will be shared with the Scottish Government and the organisations running football in Scotland.”

Formed in 2000, Supporters Direct aims to increase fans’ involvement and influence at all levels of the game, up to and including community ownership. It already has representation at 32 Scottish clubs, but Paul Goodwin, head of the organisation in Scotland, said he hoped the new initiative would provide a national focus for the opinions of supporters. “Fans’ voices are being listened to more than ever before, and we know that in recent months there has been an unprecedented debate about the game in Scotland,” he said. “Through Supporters Direct Scotland fans will have the opportunity to voice their opinions on issues of importance to them which can help inform both the football authorities and government. We want the Fans’ Parliament to be the conduit for the debate and discussion between fans across the country.

“As an organisation funded by the Scottish Government we can present supporters’ views directly to them as well as to the SPL, SFL and SFA.”

The first roadshow takes place in Edinburgh on 28 October, with eight more to follow around the country. The Corn Exchange in the capital is the venue, where Gary Mackay and Pat Stanton are guests. Fans can turn up on the day, but there is a capacity of 200, Those who register beforehand by emailing their name and date of birth to [email protected] will be entered into a prize draw. Full details of all events can be found at www.scottishfans.org.