Probe As Newry Parade Breaches Restrictions

Police are investigating after a dissident republican march in Newry breached guidelines set by the Parades Commission.

Saoradh, the group known as the political wing of the New IRA, marched in the County Down town on Saturday 05 October to commemorate hunger strikers. The parade began at Kilmorey Street and ended in Raymond McCreesh Park, where a rally was staged.

Participants were reportedly wearing paramilitary-style outfits throughout the display, with the PSNI confirming this as a breach of parading restrictions.

The Parade Commission's code of conduct prohibits the display of all references, insignia, flags or emblems relating to any proscribed organisation, as well as the wearing of paramilitary-style clothing.

Alliance Newry representative, Helena Young welcomed confirmation of a police investigation.

"Saoradh are not welcome in Newry or anywhere else," Ms Young said.

"The PSNI verbally warned marchers several times they were in breach of the Parades Commission and were ignored. It is important we take a stand against apologists for terrorists and murderers, and so I welcome the police investigation into this parade and its breaches.

"As the park is Council property, Alliance has previously sought to prevent Saoradh from using it for their propaganda. My colleagues and I will continue to do that so we move forward and not constantly have to echo back to our dark past."

Meanwhile, Ulster Unionist Councillor David Taylor expressed anger and disgust at the display, which he believes was designed to raise tensions in the community and "inflict trauma on innocent victims of IRA violence".

"The breaches of the Parades Commission determination included the parade being led by a colour party and banner glorifying IRA terror and the march journeying off the notified route," Cllr Taylor explained.

"What has occurred is a serious breach of the rule of law and there must be consequences for all those participants who flagrantly disregarded the determinations set out in respect of the march.

"It is clear that the breaches were an attempt by republicans to create confrontation with the police and it continues to highlight the sinister elements that prevail within republicanism.

"I have spoken to the police regarding the issues surrounding the parade. They have confirmed that an investigation has commenced with a view to action being taken against the organisers and participants of the event.

"For the local community to have confidence that the matter is being dealt with in a full and robust manner, the pursuit of prosecutions must take place. Republicans must know they are not above the rule of law," Cllr Taylor concluded.



(JG/MH)