Tough new laws to tackle NI sport sectarianism

Tough new laws are set to be put in place to tackle sectarian violence and chanting at sports grounds, it emerged tonight.

Culture Minister Michael McGimpsey confirmed to the Assembly that he was currently considering the extension of the Football (Offences) Act 1991 to Northern Ireland.

The Act, which was introduced to eradicate hooliganism and racism at football stadiums, makes it an offence to throw objects towards the pitch or rival spectators, take part in indecent or racist chanting or invade the pitch.

Fans who break the rules face automatic bans from domestic and international matches.

Mr McGimpsey (UUP, South Belfast) told the Assembly that he has been engaged in discussions with the Sports Council, the Irish Football Association and the police service about the practicalities of introducing similar legislation.

But he added that the new laws would not simply cover football matches.

“What I can say is we have decided we will initiate a process towards legislation to take forward the experiences on the mainland as far as the public order act here is concerned.

He was responding to calls from Sean Neeson (Alliance, East Antrim) for anti-sectarianism legislation for Irish League grounds.

“The Neil Lennon saga shows the scourge of sectarianism in football in Northern Ireland.

Unfortunately this made headlines right across the world.

“I think the Football Offences Act 1991 while it deals largely with race, I believe could be adjusted because it has been shown to be effective in other parts of Great Britain.”

On a separate question on the funding of improvements to Irish League grounds, Mary Nelis (Sinn Fein, Foyle) said that funding should only be given to clubs who have embraced anti-sectarianism.

“Would the minister agree in the light of the recent sectarian death threats issued against Neil Lennon and the general sectarianism associated with some of the current football grounds that any new stadium projects should only proceed if there is guaranteed anti-sectarianism strategies in place?” she added.

Mr McGimpsey said policies on anti-sectarianism were a key part of the grants and revenue scheme announced under the safe sports ground scheme.