MORE than half of those who have participated in an educational course and survey on racism in football have witnessed racist incidents on the field of play.
And a majority, 64 per cent, felt that these incidents were not handled well by the clubs, leagues or match officials involved.
That’s according to Show Racism the Red Card (SRTRC), which published the findings from a survey it had conducted among coaches, league administrators, referees and children’s officers involved in football at all levels.
A total of 108 people completed the survey, and Show Racism the Red Card published the findings in the lead-up to the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which took place last Saturday (March 21).
Garrett Mullan, coordinator of SRTRC, said:
“The course and survey was designed to raise awareness of the FAI Anti-Racism Rule.
“Of concern is that participants believe the incidences had not been handled correctly. Racism is a complex phenomenon, which is corrosive to our society, but we recognise that it is possible to make a difference and change attitudes. That is what Show Racism the Red Card is doing with various educational programmes.
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One of the key initiatives undertaken by SRTRC each year to raise awareness of racism in sports is its creative competition for schools.
The competition calls on young people from across the country to develop creative messages about racism and integration, using written, visual and audiovisual means.
Young people are encouraged to work in groups to develop their anti-racism messages, and applications are then made through their school or youth organisation. Teachers and youth leaders can also take a free online training course to help with their preparations on the Show Racism the Red Card website.
The closing date for applications to the creative competition is next Friday, March 27.
The competition will culminate in an awards exhibition at the Aviva Stadium on April 20.
Awards will be given to the best entries under categories including: Best Primary School, Best Secondary School, Best Youth Reach Entry, Best Service, and Best Individual.
In previous years, the awards exhibition has been attended by a host of well-known figures including President Michael D Higgins, Minister for Justice Alan Shatter, former Ireland international Kevin Kilbane and TV presenter Diana Bunici.
According to Show Racism the Red Card, a similarly high-profile list of guests will be on hand for the 2015 event.
Further information about Show Racism the Red Card is available at: www.theredcard.ie