SNS GroupThe Scottish Government has strengthened football banning orders (FBOs) to target pyrotechnic use, pitch invasions and the throwing of missiles.
Under current legislation, FBOs are issued by the court when a person is found to be involved in violence or disorder linked to a match.
Holyrood will now strengthen legislation to allow courts to impose FBOs for specific offences.
The announcement comes following a consultation into FBO legislation.
There were 903 responses to the consultation, with organisations such as the SFA, SPFL and Police Scotland supporting an extension of the use of FBOs.
A majority of fans who responded were concerned about expanding FBOs; however, they also raised concerns about increased use of pyrotechnics, and some reported witnessing serious incidents of inappropriate behaviour.
Community Safety Minister Kirsten Oswald said: “The vast majority of football fans attend matches to support their team and are a credit to their clubs. However, a small minority are compromising the fan experience and the safety of players, officials and all in attendance through anti-social and criminal behaviour.
“Recent high profile incidents involving pitch invasions and the continued use of pyrotechnics demonstrate the challenges the police, football authorities and clubs face and have to deal with. This is why we will give courts more effective powers through Football Banning Orders to target dangerous and abusive behaviour.
“Football is our national sport, and we want to make sure it is a safe and enjoyable environment for all and that is what we aim to achieve by introducing legislation.”
Last season, there were a number of high-profile incidents, including a pitch invasion at Ibrox following the Scottish Cup quarter-final between Rangers and Celtic, and after the Hoops clinched the title at home against Hearts.
The SPFL has said it welcomes the “proposals to strengthen this legislation”.
A spokesperson added: “The specific targeting of offences such as the use of pyrotechnics, pitch invasions and the throwing of missiles will help improve the safety of players, staff and supporters.
“While these incidents involve only a small minority of supporters, such behaviour puts everyone at risk and has no place in Scottish football.
“We will continue to work closely with the Scottish Govenrment and other partners as this legislation progresses.”
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