Rival rallies planned as Drumcree stand-off enters seventh day
Thousands of people gathered in Portadown to protest against a planned Orange Order march through the nationalist Garvaghy Road area. The dispute, which has historical ties to sectarian violence, is currently subject to a legal appeal.
Why it matters
The Drumcree dispute is a long-standing flashpoint in Northern Irish politics, and the current standoff tests the stability of local community relations.
Thousands of people attended rallies related to the Drumcree dispute in Portadown, Co Armagh on Saturday as a stand-off between the Orange Order and Garvaghy Road residents entered its seventh day.
A large crowd gathered at a demonstration in support of residents.
Incredible crowd to support the Garvaghy Road residents today. Unbelievable! There can be no unwanted orange march down the Garvaghy Road. No Going Back! pic.twitter.com/Zpa4IgPJZA
Absolutely incredible solidarity in Garvaghy! Thousands have gathered in support of the rights of the Garvaghy residents. There can be no unwanted march down the Garvaghy Road. There can be no going back! pic.twitter.com/ooupcS3GGv
First Minister Michelle O’Neill, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and former party leader Gerry Adams were among those in attendance.
“I thank you on behalf of people everywhere for having the courage to make this stand,” McDonald told the crowd.
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