Press Release
5th May 2000
McNeil to Attend Morton Rally – "Morton is an asset to our whole community."
MSP for Greenock & Inverclyde, Duncan McNeil, will attend a rally of Morton supporters in Greenock tomorrow. The rally, which is being organised by Morton supporters’ groups, is being held to raise awareness of the difficulties facing the club.
Commenting on the event, Mr McNeil said:
"I am looking forward to attending the march and discussing the supporters’ concerns.
"Community based clubs, such as Morton, are about more than 90 minutes on the park on a Saturday. They are a focus for the population, do valuable work with young people and can be a source of civic pride. Morton football club is not just an asset to its supporters. It is an asset to our whole community.
"Last Thursday, the Parliament held its first full debate on sport and it’s role in delivering social justice. There was, I feel, a genuine recognition that sport can be a major player in the fight against social disadvantage. And having a local football team gives us a head start.
"Sport delivers community cohesion, social development and a sense of personal achievement. Everyone is a winner if we invest in sport.
"I am also looking forward to debating the introduction of the Supporters Direct scheme in Scotland, which will give supporters a louder voice in their clubs. This will be a valuable safeguard for community clubs, such as Morton.
"To lose such a valuable asset would deal a blow, not only to fans, but to our whole community and to our efforts to deliver social justice."
ENDS
Notes:
The rally is scheduled to begin at 1:30 in Clyde Square, Greenock on Saturday 6th May 2000.
The supporters then intend to march to the home ground of Greenock Morton, Cappielow.
Others in attendance will include Morton’s ex-manager, Alan McGraw and possibly other former playing and coaching staff.
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