Thursday July 28th 2022
Midlothian Council Leader Councillor Kelly Parry has condemned as “shameful”, the decision by Whitehill Welfare football club to sign convicted domestic abuser Paul Tansey.
Councillor Parry is writing to the Rosewell Club urging them to cut ties with the player.
The midfielder was released from his contract with Penicuik Athletic in May after he pleaded guilty to attacking his partner, the Celtic women’s footballer Lisa Robertson.
Councillor Parry said: “Footballers are role models in our communities and it’s not ok to have someone in this position who has been convicted of appalling acts of violence.
“Allowing the convicted offender to now train with Whitehill Welfare is a shameful decision by the club and it sends a clear message of disregard to domestic abuse survivors across Midlothian and beyond.
“As a council we condemn this decision and we urge Whitehill Welfare to rethink.”
Councillor for Midlothian West, Pauline Winchester said:
“I have no idea why Whitehill Welfare thought it would be a good idea to sign a man who is as dangerous as this to play any role in a so-called ‘family-oriented club’. He has already been sacked by one club, why Whitehill failed to do any due diligence remains an open question.
“This signing does not send the appropriate message to young boys and girls who aspire to be footballers, nor to those who are victims of domestic violence.
“Whitehill must sack him, as abuse of this or any nature must not be tolerated in any modern society”.
Tansey was given a five year non-harassment order and 80 hours unpaid work.
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