AICSC statement on Neil Lennon.

The Association of Irish Celtic Supporters’ Clubs wishes to reiterate its

support for Celtic manager, Neil Lennon, at this time. Last summer, we warmly welcomed Neil’s appointment and we are delighted

with the team’s current run of form under his leadership, which has led us

to a Scottish Cup Final and in contention for top spot in the SPL. All of this has been done with a brand of football played the Celtic way and we have every confidence in Neil becoming one of Celtic’s greatest managers in the years ahead.

Since joining Celtic as a player Neil Lennon has had to endure abuse both on and off the field, unparallel to anything experienced by any other player in the SPL. At no stage throughout this time has Neil Lennon given less than 100% while representing Celtic, or taken the easy option of moving on, which is testament to the character of the man and the regard in which he holds our club.

During these past ten years it should also be noted that on many occasions Neil has travelled to Ireland and beyond to help promote and support various charity events, hosted by the AICSC and other groups. Neil has always been very generous with his time and support when it comes to charity work although facts like these do not seem to take up too many column inches.

The latest incident of viable explosive devices being sent through the post to our manager and other high profile Celtic Supporters is further evidence of the disregard for human life which is held by certain people in today’s society. Regardless of profession, nobody should have to contend with this sort of treatment as they and their families go about their day to day life, although Neil Lennon seems to be fair game simply because he is a Catholic Irishman who happens to manage Glasgow Celtic.

We welcome the condemnation from various bodies including UEFA, of the threats

against Neil Lennon. Also the assurances of Scotland’s First Minister that the police investigation will be given “every possible support” that the perpetrators will be

traced and dealt with. We await with interest any further developments on this front and trust the police will make this an absolute priority as it must stop immediately. Equally, we trust the media will be vigilant in pursuing the progress of these investigations.

We re-affirm our 100% support for Neil and his family. We are immensely proud that he is our manager and wish him well in leading the team through the latter stages of this season and beyond.

The Committee of the Association of Irish Celtic Supporters’ Clubs

April 2011