| Match Pictures | Matches: 1998 – 1999 | 1998-1999 Pictures |
SPL Commission – Decision re. events of 2nd May, 1999.
The SPL Commission today (9/8/99) decided to fine Celtic £45,000 in relation to its opinion that Celtic Football Club breached SPL Rule 17.1.1 (b) by it's failure to comply with SFA Article 96, by virtue of
- (a) its failure to provide appropriate advice and instruction to the Celtic players as to the possible impact of their behaviour on the conduct of Celtic supporters watching the match, and (b) in respect of the behaviour of Mahe.
The SPL Commission found that Celtic was not in breach of its obligation under the SFA article re-security and operational management of the match and the circumstances surrounding it on 2nd May, 1999, endorsing the view of the SFA Committee of Enquiry and Strathclyde Police.
Celtic chief executive Allan MacDonald comments:
"The events of 2nd May, 1999, are greatly regretted by everyone involved at Celtic Football Club. Undoubtedly, many circumstances contributed to the unacceptable incidents which unfolded.
"Whilst acknowledging that many of these circumstances were outwith Celtic's control, we must firstly look to ourselves and scrutinise if we could have done more to prevent them, to ensure that we all learn and continue to work towards football offering a safe and enjoyable environment where people can come without fear and be entertained in an exciting, save and modern setting."I am pleased that the SPL, SFA and Strathclyde Police have been satisfied with our match-day planning and operation, which has withstood the most rigorous internal and external inspection.
"Prior to the establishment of the SPL Commission, Celtic had carried out an internal audit and external audit by appointing objective external experts to analyse our systems of operation.
"This has been a lengthy, expensive and time-consuming exercise. As a club, we are analysing the recommendations of our external advisers.
"Celtic will not be appealing against the fine."We accept it is important to take responsibility and be accountable for our actions and in this context we recognise our shared responsibility with the SPL and SFA for the effective management of the events of May 2nd.
"However, while accepting the fine without appeal, the club does feel £45,000 to be excessive, considering the combination of contributing factors that were outwith Celtic's control. We appear to be being fined because of the SPL Commission's perceived inadequacy of our pre-match briefing of our players.
"Celtic, of course, has fined the player involved and he has appropriately received a Scottish Football Authority suspension.
"I am convinced that the player concerned very much regrets his actions. I know he has been shocked by the implications that arose.
"Stephane Mahe is a fine young man, who reacted badly on this extremely volatile occasions, he has been punished by the club and the SFA. He has expressed his apologies publicly. It is now time this matter was closed."The club has acted swiftly and severely to deal with the individual supporters concerned, ensuring they will never enter Celtic Park again.
"This minority of supporters cannot and will not be tolerated. It is important that it is clearly understood that any individual within our support who does not embrace the standards and principles that Celtic and its supporters are proud to stand for will be banned for life.
"The people who acted in this way should be ashamed of themselves, they have no grounds to call themselves Celtic supporters."