Joint Response Group update 10/08/20

The Joint Response Group confirms that a constructive discussion took place via videoconference between the managers and captains of the Scottish Premiership clubs and the National Clinical Director for Scotland, Professor Jason Leitch.  
 
During the call, the representatives of the 12 clubs were reminded not only of their responsibilities to adhere to the Return to Training and Return to Playing Protocols but to the wider Scottish Government’s public health guidelines laid down in the Route Map out of the COVID-19 Crisis. 
 
Aberdeen FC has also today provided to the JRG a comprehensive protocol document to highlight the stringent measures undertaken at Cormack Park and Pittodrie Stadium to ensure ongoing compliance with the relevant guidelines. Having reviewed the documentation we are confident it not only meets but exceeds the requirements of the protocols.  
 
Rod Petrie, Chair of the Joint Response Group: “The JRG is thankful to Professor Leitch, as well as the managers and captains of Scottish Premiership clubs, for facilitating a video call to reinforce the message that Scottish football is serious in its commitment to helping the country emerge from the COVID crisis as safely as possible.  
 
“The events of last week were deeply regrettable but the JRG commends the immediate response by the Aberdeen owner, David Cormack, and the manager, Derek McInnes, in dealing with the matter and providing government with the necessary confidence that there will be no repeat. 
 
“Scottish football must continue to work together to ensure the national game remains a safe and secure environment for all participants, but it must also be mindful of its role in promoting and protecting public health messages, behaviours and obligations. 
 
“Harsh lessons have been learned by Aberdeen that will have been heeded by the rest of Scottish football and that message was made clear to Professor Leitch this evening.”