Pleafor addictsto gethelp theyneed
Central Scotland MSP Monica Lennon has urged the SFA to recognise gambling addiction as an illness.
Scottish Labour’s health and sport spokesperson wrote to Scottish Football Association chief executive Ian Maxwell to welcome new measures to encourage anyone affected by problem gambling to seek help.
In her letter she stated: “Gambling addiction is a major public health issue in our society that the football community is not immune from.
“Proposals for an ‘amnesty’ would send a strong message to players, coaching staff and fans who are living with the fear and shame.
“This should be given serious consideration.“
The MSP also commended
Rice for taking the “courageous step” of disclosing his addiction during First Minster’s Questions last Thursday – the day the Accies coach faced the SFA hearing panel.
Lennon also asked what action the government is taking to work with football authorities and clubs to reduce problem gambling.
First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said: “I agree very much with those sentiments.
“As Monica Lennon said, a hearing is under way right now, so it would be inappropriate for me to comment on that.
“However, I agree that Brian Rice has shown great courage and I hope that he gets the support that he needs.
“More generally, gambling addiction – like any addiction – is an illness, and it should be treated as such.
“We should focus much more on the support that we can provide.
“We are happy to work with others to provide whatever additional support we are able to.”