The Minister for Sports, Patrick O’ Donovan is being urged to ‘keep a calm head and not overact’ following a serious incident in Oriel Park, Dundalk which saw a 12-year-old child being injured by a ‘flare’.
Aontú Louth Rep Michael O’ Dowd has said disproportionate
“Everyone agrees what happened was totally unacceptable. A child was injured and those responsible must face consequences. But with respect, I believe Minister O’ Donovan needs to calm down and respond proportionately.
The vast majority of supporters attend matches to back their clubs, not to cause harm. Punishing the whole game by halting funding or threatening sweeping powers risks damaging communities, volunteers and young players far more than the small minority involved.
There is a simple, targeted solution. Make possession of pyrotechnics at matches a clear offence and introduce ASBO-style banning orders. Anyone caught bringing or using flares should face immediate, nationwide stadium bans. Remove the individuals and you remove the problem.
Strong action is needed, but it should be focused and effective. Calm heads and targeted enforcement will protect fans, protect public investment and protect the future of Irish football , without overreaction.
This is what real leadership looks like and inspires confidence in people.
Overreaction and knee jerk response inspire the direct opposite”.
