McCabe calls for action to curb Old Firm domestic violence

Jun 25 2009 by Alastair McNeill, Hamilton Advertiser

A HAMILTON MSP has expressed concern about the level of domestic violence which takes place on days of Old Firm matches.

Labour MSP Tom McCabe (Hamilton South) pointed to Strathclyde Police figures which show that reports of domestic violence increase by 40 per cent on days that Rangers and Celtic are playing.

In the Scottish Parliament last week, Mr McCabe, asked Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill about the measures the Scottish Government was taking to address the problem. Mr McCabe said: "The continued presence of domestic violence in our society is one that should shame us all.

“And while it may be no surprise that there is a link between Old Firm matches and higher levels of domestic violence, we need our Government and our police forces to work to reduce and ultimately to stamp out this scourge.

“It is a problem that not only exists in our local community, but is one which is repeated across the country.

“So I am glad that I was able to raise the issue in the Chamber.

“However, I will be happier when every sign of domestic violence is stamped out in Scotland, for good."

Mr MacAskill told Mr McCabe that the Scottish Government were seeking to build on legislation and initiatives put in place by the previous Labour and Liberal Democrat administration.

Mr McAskill also said that action needed to be taken to tackle alcohol-fuelled abuse of women and domestic violence.

He said: “To address the scourge of domestic violence and the problem of violence in Scotland we need to be firm.

“The solution involves education, cultural change, addressing attitudes and enforcing laws.”