Question reference: S5W-35960
- Asked by: Angus MacDonald, MSP for Falkirk East, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 10 March 2021
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Current status: Answered by Mairi Gougeon on 24 March 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what specific consideration it gave to all full-time SPFL football clubs that compete below the Championship level when the frameworks were finalised for the distribution of grants in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and whether it plans to provide additional support to each of these clubs on an equal basis, regardless of the division that they play in.
Answer
We are aware of the impact the restrictions had on football at all levels of the football pyramid, including clubs operating on a full time and part time basis. The distribution mechanism was agreed with the Scottish FA to be as fair and equitable as possible, addressing the financial difficulties being experienced by clubs while also recognising the need to ensure there was no unfair competitive advantage to any club within the same division.
The suspension of the lower leagues below the Championship by the Scottish FA for a short spell was necessary to combat the pandemic and reduce transmission rates across the country.
The Scottish Government worked closely with the Scottish FA to allow the resumption of some additional football activity earlier this month with mandatory weekly COVID PCR tests for all players and staff.