The Green Brigade have released a statement after more of the group’s members were banned by Celtic.
For much of the season just finished, the Green Brigade were locked out of Celtic Park after heavy disciplinary action which emerged in October.
It developed into a prolonged dispute between the two parties, as many bemoaned that the absence of the fan group’s passionate support on the pitch was contributing to the team’s faltering performances.
This led to Celtic reinstating the GB for the season’s run-in, to great effect in terms of results — but that doesn’t seem to have halted the pair’s grievances.
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Green Brigade statement on new Celtic ban condemns ‘fierce unnecessary division’
The North Curve social pages posted the following statement: “After an unjustified five month and 32-match ban, 250 supporters returned to Celtic matches for the final six weeks of the season.
“It was clear, and acknowledged from players to manager, that the subsequent change in atmosphere was pivotal in inspiring the team to an unlikely and unforgettable double.
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“This fairytale ending would not have been achieved without unity across the stands and pitch.
“‘Unity’ has consistently been referred to from Martin O’Neill to Brian Wilson, and we believe both helped lift the bans.
“It is therefore frustrating that the Celtic board is reverting to type, now that the season has finished, to ban Green Brigade members over vexatious allegations we believed to have been settled weeks ago.
“On Thursday evening, less than 24 hours before the season ticket renewal deadline, two members of the Green Brigade were informed that they will be unable to renew their season tickets pending a disciplinary process.
“The concerns relate to a conversation with Mark Hargreaves at the Celtic AGM over six months ago.
“The fact that both individuals were unbanned alongside other fans proves this to be cynical timing and undermines the credibility of any allegations.
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“Further, both individuals are well known to the Celtic hierarchy through years of representation and challenging but civil interactions.
“One has been central to the development and successes of the Celtic Fans Collective; while the other has been a strong advocate for Palestine solidarity at Celtic – two developments which the Celtic board has consistently opposed.
“In principle, we welcome fair and transparent processes in instances where reasonable grievances and evidence exists. However this is merely another cynical and vindictive exercise.
“It serves as a stark reminder that while the Celtic hierarchy remains unchanged and individuals like Michael Nicholson, Chris McKay and Mark Hargreaves retain influence at the club, there will be no sustained unity.
“We will robustly challenge the allegations but fear the outcome is predetermined and risks returning fierce unnecessary division to the club.”
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