Justice Secretary pleads with Rangers fans not to march during 'fragile stage' in fight against COVID-19
Some fans groups are planning gatherings on the day the Premiership trophy is presented
Last updated 13th May 2021
Rangers fans are being warned against gathering outside Ibrox for the Premiership League trophy presentation on Saturday.
Some fans are planning to gather outside Ibrox for the title celebrations, followed by a march to Glasgow's George Square.
Humza Yousaf’s met with the club, Police Scotland and Glasgow City Council.
The Justice Secretary is now pleading with Rangers fans against gathering to celebrate when the side are crowned champions on Saturday 15 May.
He said: “I understand Rangers supporters will want to celebrate what will be a huge day for the club - but we are in a crucial and fragile stage in our fight against the virus, with a new variant and eased restrictions adding to the risks.
In March there was strong criticism when thousands of fans gathered outside Ibrox and at George Square over two days on the weekend the club clinched the Scottish Premiership.
Assistant Chief Constable of Police Scotland, Bernard Higgins, branded those involved “completely and utterly irresponsible”.
Plea to listen to club
Humza Yousaf continued: “I strongly urge fans to mark the occasion safely and within the COVID restrictions that are in place to protect the public. The strong message is that no-one - including fans - should congregate anywhere in large numbers.
“I have urged Rangers Football Club to also reinforce the message that fans should not gather, and I welcome the constructive approach Rangers have told me they are willing to take, along with Police Scotland and Glasgow City Council’s considerable work for the safe running of the match on Saturday.
“I urge supporters to listen to the upcoming messages from their club and the police to stick to the rules, which are there to protect all our safety. It is important there is no complacency and pressure is maintained to ensure we continue to supress the virus.”
In March there was strong criticism when thousands of fans gathered outside Ibrox and at George Square over two days on the weekend the club clinched the Scottish Premiership.
Assistant Chief Constable of Police Scotland, Bernard Higgins, branded those involved “completely and utterly irresponsible”.
Covid hotspots
The Glasgow has seen a steady rise in postive tests this week to more than double the Scotland-wide average, with more than 50 cases per 100,000 people.
The highest numbers are being seen in districts on the soutide including Battlefield and Pollokshields, and also in Easterhouse.
"People are still being admitted to hospital - people are still in ICU - the virus is still there." said Humza Yousaf.
"Fans gathering doesn't just risk their own health, and potentially their own lives, you are risking the lives of the community all around you."
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