PSNI Information

PSNI have released the following information ahead of this weekend’s BetMcLean Cup final…

Police are requesting that Linfield and Coleraine fans travelling by car and coach to the Irish League Cup final at the National Stadium on Sunday 12^th March 23 at 3pm leave sufficient travel time in order to arrive at the stadium in plenty of time.

The area in the immediate vicinity of the stadium is a busy residential and commercial area.

Motorists are asked that if you are driving to the match, please park with consideration for the local community/residents and businesses. Traffic congestion is likely at key ingress and egress times due to the expected volume of supporters attending the fixture.

Police are reminding all fans that there are specific offences created by the Criminal Justice Act NI 2011 in relation to soccer matches-

• Possession of/ throwing Fireworks/ Flares etc
• Throwing Articles capable of causing injury
• Going on to the Playing area
• Sectarian Chanting
• Drinking on Passenger Carrying Vehicles

In addition all fans are reminded that the areas around the National Stadium are “No Street Drinking” zones under Belfast City Council By-Laws.  Any Street drinking taking place will be dealt with robustly by police and any alcohol found subject to seizure.

As a condition of entry to the stadium fans will be subject to random searches.

Maximum Use of CCTV/ Video Evidence will be utilised as part of the match Policing Operation in an effort to deal with any criminal offences/anti social behaviour which takes place.

Police will take all steps to identify and deal with anyone who has been or is committing offences.

It is hoped that a common sense approach to the event can be taken by all and the occasion enjoyed.

It is vitally important for supporter and community safety that these instructions are complied with.