Celtic to enter settlement negotiations over boys club sex abuse cases

Celtic have indicated their intention to enter settlement negotiations over claims of historical abuse at Celtic Boys Club.

A "class action" litigation against the club had been approved after a number of former coaches and officials were convicted of sexual offences dating back decades.

Thompsons Solicitors, acting on behalf of more than 20 former players, have now revealed the club have indicated they are willing to explore the possibility of a settlement.

Celtic have previously stated Celtic Boys Club was an "entirely separate" entity and therefore not responsible.

A statement from Thompsons Solicitors on Tuesday says the club have not formally admitted liability or made any other formal concessions as part of their latest discussions.

Clyde News has approached Celtic FC for comment.

The statement read: "Thompsons Solicitors are pleased to confirm that Celtic Plc have indicated their intention to enter settlement negotiations within the context of the Celtic Group Proceedings Litigation.

"This litigation relates to cases of historical abuse at Celtic Boys Club by convicted paedophiles, James Torbett and Frank Cairney.

"Celtic Plc have not formally admitted liability or made any other formal concessions but their desire to now enter negotiations to explore the possibility of a settlement of this action has been made clear.

"This means that parties will ask the Court to adjourn the forthcoming proof to allow work to be undertaken to value individual cases.

"We appreciate that there has been significant public interest in this action and hope that this comment clarifies the current situation.

"There will be no further comment at this stage from Thompsons or our clients. Please do not contact our clients directly for comment. We are grateful for this position being respected."

On Tuesday evening, a spokesperson for Celtic Football Club said: "Celtic Football Club has always taken allegations regarding abuse at Celtic Boys' Club extremely seriously. Celtic Football Club and their lawyers have made strenuous efforts to investigate these matters and they continue to do so.

"Celtic's lawyers continue to investigate and discuss these cases with the lawyers acting for those who suffered abuse at Celtic Boys' Club. Those discussions are ongoing. It would not be appropriate for Celtic Football Club to comment any further while there are ongoing legal proceedings."

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