20/03/2006

IFA to support anti-racism campaign

Northern Ireland sporting authorities are set to support a fresh bid to stamp out racism in local sports.

The campaign is being lead by the Irish Football Association (IFA) as part of their Anti-Racism Week, which will run from March 20-25. Coinciding with this the European soccer body UEFA is set to publish a 10-point plan against racism and sectarianism in football.

As part of the campaign, the IFA will be working alongside the Community Relations Council, the Sports Council, and the Council for Ethnic Minorities and the Equality Commission.

Speaking earlier today to the BBC, a spokeswoman for the IFA said that although there has been success in stamping out racism at an International level, more needs to be done in partnership with and support from Carnegie League Clubs with regards to actively promoting positive community relations.

She added that with this goal in mind, the launch of the UEFA's 10-Point Plan would be the best practice guide to tackle racism and sectarianism.

Former UUP Sports Minister Michael McGimpsey has welcomed the new campaign spearheaded by the Irish Football Association.

The South Belfast MLA said: “The IFA has a heritage in football that is second to none and their responsible attitude demonstrates their commitment to this regional, national and international game. It is vital that all sporting bodies put on a united front to show fans they have a zero tolerance approach for racism."

Mr McGimpsey added: “The IFA’s track record in tackling racism has been an excellent example for society. This recent campaign is part of a long standing process aiming to eliminate racism from football and includes other initiatives such as Sports For All, Show Bigotry the Red Card and Kick Racism out of Football."

He concluded by saying that sport has the power to unite communities and racism has no place in modern society, and by putting out the anti–racism message promotes positive community relations and creates a more inclusive culture.

(EF/SP)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

07 October 2024
Lough Neagh Community Engagement Sessions
A series of community drop-in sessions are being held to provide information about the ongoing efforts to address blue-green algae and improve water quality in Lough Neagh. These sessions will offer the public an opportunity to learn more about the causes and impacts of blue-green algae and the actions being taken to mitigate its effects.
24 September 2024
Council Approves Dual Street Language Sign In Portadown
A dual street language sign for Woodside Gardens in Portadown has been approved by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council. Alliance Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council group leader Councillor Peter Lavery welcomed the approval and said it will be the first ever bilingual English and Irish sign in the town.
18 July 2024
Good Relation Plans Needed After Broadway Unrest - Alliance
Alliance Executive Office Spokesperson, Paula Bradshaw, has warned that unrest in South Belfast highlights the urgency of reviewing Good Relations programmes and delivering an enhanced Good Relations Strategy.
05 September 2024
PSNI And Universities Launch Student Safety Campaign
The Police Service of Northern Ireland has partnered with Queen's University Belfast, Ulster University and Belfast Metropolitan College, for the launch of a new Student Safety Campaign. The campaign aims to encourage safe and respectful behaviour and provide an opportunity for students to learn more about their local police.
02 September 2024
PHA Welcomes Success Of Dysphagia Awareness Campaign
The Public Health Agency (PHA) has welcomed the success of a campaign to improve the lives of people with dysphagia – the medical term for eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties – enabling them to not only eat out but to connect, interact and to enhance their mental wellbeing.