Calls for summit on safe use of pyrotechnics in Scottish football
It comes after high profile use of pyrotechnics across Scottish football over the last month
Last updated 7th Mar 2023
There are calls for the Scottish Government, Police Scotland the Scottish football's governing bodies to enter into talks with supporters' groups about the safe use of pyrotechnics at grounds across the country.
It comes after high profile incidents at Hampden Park and Tannadice over the last couple of weeks where flares and fireworks have been used by fans.
Both Celtic and Rangers supporters put on displays during the Viaplay Cup final at the end of February - despite the use of pyrotechnics being banned in Scottish football grounds.
Aberdeen fans also brought flares to Tannadice during their 3-1 win over Dundee United on Saturday.
The Scottish Football Supporters Association feel it is now time for talks over potential rules and regulations being put in place over the safe use of pyrotechnics.
Paul Goodwin believes the governing bodies should act now and not wait until someone gets seriously injured, especially as they have been unable to stop pyrotechnics being brought into stadia.
He said: "Undoubtedly going forward there has got to be proper conversations about the use of pyrotechnics.
"Football fans can get banning orders, but we don't want to see them get ting banned from games - especially ones that are trying to create atmosphere and make the game a bit more special in their eyes.
"It's a question of calling for some sort of summit with the police, the Scottish Government and ourselves to see if there is a way of working towards what they're doing in Sweden.
"They are testing and trialing safe pyrotechnics that are allowed into grounds.
"They realised you just can't stop people bringing them into the grounds - it's virtually impossible to police.
"We need to be sensible about it but we also need to be honest and look at the dangers it can cause as well.
"Ignoring it until something drastic happens is the worst solution here.
"We would encourage the Sports Minister (Maree Todd MSP), Police Scotland and the football authorities to come and talk to us".
Having pyrotechnics inside a sports ground has been illegal in Scotland for almost 40 years, with further legislation passed last year.
Police are now allowed to search those they may suspect be carrying flares or fireworks outside of stadia on match days because of the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Articles (Scotland) Act 2022.
SNP leadership candidate Humza Yousaf has also given his response to calls for a summit.