The Ulster Unionist Party’s Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP, Tom Elliott, has described FIFA’s decision to fine the four UK Football Associations for the display of Poppy Symbols during recent international matches on Armistice Day, as absolutely shameful.
Mr Elliott said:
“Nothing can justify the decision by FIFA to fine all four UK Football Associations for the display of poppies at international matches last month.
“FIFA has decided to fine the Irish FA 15,000 Swiss Francs which amounts to around £11,760. The other fines were 45,000 Swiss Francs for the English FA, whilst the Scottish and Welsh FAs were fined 20,000 Swiss Francs each.
“I say again; the display of the Poppy is a non-political and non-religious symbol of remembrance. Remembrance in the United Kingdom commemorates the dead of two World Wars and subsequent conflicts. It is a truly National event and FIFA’s actions are nothing less than shameful.
“FIFA has 211 member associations. It is a fact that many of the countries which they represent would not exist today if it were not for the bravery and sacrifice of those who laid down their lives, particularly in World War Two.
“The United Kingdom does not need - nor should it ever seek - permission or guidance from anyone as to how we should commemorate our War dead.
“We certainly do not need any input from an organisation which has become a by-word for corruption and scandal and which has lost all moral authority to sit in judgement of anyone.”