Around 100 representatives of Rangers Supporters Clubs and fans group organisations held a meeting at Ibrox Stadium on Sunday to continue their call for the self-policing initiative to eradicate sectarian and offensive singing which has proven so successful in recent times. We will continue to ask that fans eradicate all singing of The Billy Boys, references to Fenians, and FTP. Other songs which have been incorrectly challenged by some observers like The Sash and Build My Gallows, which contain no sectarian references at all, will continue to be allowed after discussions with the club, Police officials, and legal experts.
The fans were congratulated for their tremendous backing of the team during both the run-in to last season and during pre-season where we travelled in huge numbers to the friendly matches without incident.
Many of our fans feel that the level of scrutiny and media attention is not even-handed. In particular, Celtic fans continue their disgraceful and offensive singing in support of the IRA, witnessed again at Easter Road on Sunday despite calls from their Manager and other spokesmen for it to cease. Yet again though, there has been no comment from the media and the relevant authorities. Similarly, there was no comment following the Hearts v Celtic match back in May when the same offensive singing by Celtic fans was a feature of the whole match.
No longer will the Rangers support sit idly by and be the only support under the microscope while others continue to sully the name of Scottish football shown on live television across the world.
We are well aware that in the past we have had our problems, and we will continue to be vigilant, but in this new era for the club the fans are determined to play our part, and all we seek is a level playing field where all other clubs are under the same scrutiny.