The Celtic board has urged shareholders to reject three major resolutions at the upcoming Annual General Meeting. The club's directors are asking for votes against proposals for an independent strategic review, a full review of security operations at Celtic Park, and a demand for an apology following Ross Desmond's speech at last year's AGM.
The meeting is scheduled for December 1 at Celtic Park. The board stated it does not support the call for a strategic review and five-year plan, arguing it would place the club at a competitive disadvantage. It also recommended voting against the security review resolution, citing instances of unacceptable conduct within the stadium.
Fan pressure and security dispute
A second resolution, pushed by the Green Brigade and Celtic Fans Collective, asks for a full review of security operations amid safety concerns. The ultras group claims it has been treated unfairly by the club's head of security and Police Scotland. They argue Celtic has placed too much faith in a policing-led model of supporter management.
The Green Brigade was banned from the stadium last season due to unacceptable conduct. The dispute with club officials intensified after a police incident during a match against Falkirk in the previous campaign. Principal shareholder Dermot Desmond is being urged by fan groups to attend the AGM, which he has not done since 2006.
AGM history and apology demand
The third resolution demands a full and unreserved apology from the chairman for the handling of matters following Ross Desmond's explosive speech at the 2025 AGM. Ross Desmond, son of Dermot, delivered a pre-written statement on behalf of his father that took aim at the club's detractors.
Desmond accused some anti-board protestors of being 'bullies'. His speech descended into chaos, forcing then-chairman Peter Lawwell to abandon the meeting. The board has rejected the call for an apology, defending the speech. Ross Desmond said: "His speech was a robust defence of Celtic Football Club, its long-term stewardship and the dedication of those responsible for its management."
The upcoming AGM is considered contentious, occurring twelve months after that heated meeting. Under-fire Parkhead chiefs Michael Nicholson and Brian Wilson will face shareholders.
Board communication plans
Looking ahead, the board stated it will seek to improve communication through the newly formed Celtic Connect fan engagement group. This comes as the first-team squad continues its strong form on the pitch, sitting top of the Premiership. They are clear of Rangers and next face St Mirren at home.
The board's final recommendation is for shareholders to vote against the three resolutions when the AGM convenes on December 1.
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