Celtic fans plan 90 minute silent protest over Bernard Higgins

Celtic supporters plan on staying silent during their match against Real Betis

Author: Andrew MacleanPublished 8th Dec 2021

Celtic fans are planning a 90 minute silent protest against the potential appointment of former Police Scotland chief constable Bernard Higgins.

Higgins is reportedly in line to take up a senior security position at the club, with chairman Ian Bankier refusing to rule it out during their AGM.

Supporters have already protested during previous matches and are planning more action, starting with Thursday's clash against Real Betis.

A joint statement from Celtic supporter groups claims the Parkhead side have ignored their requests to enter into dialogue about the potential appointment.

It read: "Over recent weeks, the Celtic support has united to send a clear message to the Celtic board that Bernard Higgins is not welcome at the club.

"An open letter sent to Michael Nicholson, co-signed by every supporter group and organisation, all prominent fan media outlets, podcasts and websites, and over 250 supporter clubs made it clear that fans oppose the Higgins appointment and will refuse to engage with him.

"Michael Nicholson has not responded.

"An email campaign was launched, with individual supporters contacting Michael Nicholson directly to demonstrate their personal opposition to Higgins' appointment and demand a response.

"Michael Nicholson has not responded.

"The same signatories to the open letter - and more displayed banners around Celtic Park reiterating their opposition to Higgins' appointment.

"The club has not responded.

"Since the appointment was first discussed in October, continual requests have been made to the club to discuss this issue further.

"The club has not responded.

"It is within this context, and with regret, that we announce a return to the silent protest which began the campaign.

"On Thursday against Real Betis and, if necessary, on Sunday against Motherwell we will remain silent for 90 minutes and ask those who support the campaign to join us.

"We will gladly call off Sunday's silent protest should Michael Nicholson agree to meet with the supporter organisations to discuss the issue.