Scottish women footballers resolve equality dispute

The Scotland Women’s national team have withdrawn legal action against the Scottish Football Association over equal pay and treatment claims after securing what skipper Rachel Corsie described as “parity”.

Corsie had been due to be the lead claimant in an employment tribunal case.

The players were demanding a contract stipulating equal pay and treatment compared to their male counterparts on issues such as training facilities, hotels, travel, kit, plus medical and nutritional resources.

In a statement in December, Corsie claimed the action, which was being funded by PFA Scotland, was brought after “years of iniquity, disrespect, and in some cases abuse”.

In a new statement issued by the SFA, Corsie said: “I am glad that we have been able to find a resolution, avoiding the need for a tribunal.

“The legal route is one that nobody wanted to undertake but positive discussions have taken place during the intervening period with mutual respect, understanding and co-operation.

“As captain, I believe we have a responsibility to push for the highest standards on and off the field.

“The Scottish FA has made significant inroads in this regard and together we are on an evolutionary journey.

“We are proud to have parity, not just for the current generation but more significantly for future generations of players.”

SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell welcomed the development.

“The growth of women’s football is one of the Scottish FA’s highest strategic priorities,” he said.

“We have reiterated our commitment to equality – specifically with regard to commercial appearances, prize money distribution and resources.

“We must now look forward with a shared goal: to return to major tournaments; working together to bring success on the field that will in turn encourage broadcasters and rights holders to do more to bridge the value gap that remains the biggest obstacle on the journey to equality within the women’s game globally.”