NI first minister called for police interview over Drumcree parade protest
Northern Ireland's First Minister Michelle O'Neill has been invited for a police interview regarding her participation in protests against an Orange Order march. O'Neill stated she will cooperate with the investigation while maintaining that her presence was a show of solidarity with local residents.
Why it matters
The involvement of a high-ranking political official in a controversial sectarian protest highlights ongoing political tensions in Northern Ireland.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, Michelle O'Neill confirmed in a statement on Friday she received the letter
First Minister Michelle O'Neill has said she has received a letter from police investigating protests over the Drumcree parading dispute.
On Thursday, the police said they had begun issuing letters inviting people "reasonably suspected" of committing offences linked to the protests to interview.
Unionist politicians have called for action to be taken against O'Neill and other senior Sinn Féin politicians who took part in the protests against the Orange Order march down the Garvaghy Road at the end of last month.
O'Neill has previously defended her attendance, saying she was "proud to stand with the residents" and that "when the law is wrong, I will stand firmly against it".
The police statement did not name anyone they planned to issue a letter to.
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