Latest news with #UnfinishedRevolutionNationalEasterCommemoration
Belfast Telegraph
23-04-2025
- Belfast Telegraph
Man charged under Terrorism Act following disorder at New IRA parade in Derry
The PSNI said the 55-year-old was arrested under the Terrorism Act and has been charged with a number of offences. Police officers were attacked with petrol bombs as masked men led around 150 people gathered at the parade through the city. Police made two arrests and seized a number of items, including a van. Masked colour party leads new IRA parade through Derry The 55-year-old man has been charged with managing a meeting in support of a proscribed organisation, and two counts of aiding and abetting, including wearing clothing/articles as a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation, and failure to comply with a condition imposed by the Parades Commission. The man is due to appear before Londonderry Magistrates' Court on Thursday. A second man, who is 30 years old, who was also arrested under the Terrorism Act following the parade, has since been released following questioning. The parade, which has previously been named as the 'Unfinished Revolution National Easter Commemoration', left the Creggan shops at 2pm on Monday, ending at a New IRA monument in the Bogside. Images of the parade showed a masked colour party leading those taking part in it. Young people were also seen alongside the parade, some of whom had petrol bombs. One young person was seen with a shopping trolley full of the objects. Large groups of young people were also seen heading towards the Derry Walls, with some throwing petrol bombs at police and gathering beside elderly people's homes. Some fireworks were also lit by young people involved. As the parade was recognised as a legal march, it's understood that parade organisers hoped there would be assurances of no police presence but the PSNI did not make any such agreement. The Parades Commission previously noted that 'historically, there has been serious criminal offending associated with this parade' and urged those organising and participating to ensure it doesn't happen again. A condition was imposed that 'no paramilitary-style clothing' should be worn or flags, bannerettes or symbols relating to proscribed organisations displayed. Before this year's parade, Saoradh said its parade would be carried out in a 'dignified and respectful manner', and demanded that police 'stay away' and 'refrain from any provocative or heavy-handed presence that would only serve to increase tensions and disrespect the memory of those being commemorated'.
Sunday World
23-04-2025
- Sunday World
Football club confirm probe over footage of James McClean's brother at New IRA parade
Defender Patrick 'Paddy' McClean was spotted at the New IRA parade in Derry on Monday. Glentoran FC have confirmed they are investigating footage which shows one of their players in attendance at a dissident Easter rally. Defender Patrick 'Paddy' McClean was spotted at the New IRA parade in Derry on Monday. A video clip has been widely circulated online showing the former Derry City footballer - who is also the brother of Wrexham FC star James McClean - walking on the street as the masked colour party marches in the same direction through the city. A spokesperson for Glentoran said that the east Belfast club 'is aware of footage involving one of our players currently circulating online'. Patrick McClean in action for Glentoran 'The club is fully committed to maintaining a respectful, inclusive and welcoming environment for all players, staff, supporters and the wider community,' they continued. 'The matter is being reviewed internally in line with club policies and no further comment will be made at this time.' During the parade, police made two arrests and seized items including a van, after officers were attacked with petrol bombs in Derry. There is no suggestion Paddy McClean was involved in any of the disorder, or was spoken to by police. However, a senior officers condemned the actions of others who caused trouble. Glentoran player Paddy McClean spotted at New IRA parade in Derry PSNI Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney, said that despite parade organisers' claims that they wanted to hold a dignified commemoration, 'what we saw was the complete opposite'. "From the commencement of the parade to when it dispersed, we saw masked individuals, which we believe at this time to be a breach of the Parades Commission determination,' she added. "As these masked individuals made their way towards the dispersal point on Lecky Road, disorder developed in the area of Nailors Row from around 2.50pm. "Petrol bombs, fireworks and masonry were thrown which resulted in nearby Bishop Street being closed for a time for public safety reasons. Members of the public were diverted away from that area in the City Walls. "This disorder involving young people was orchestrated. We have no doubt about this,' the senior police officer continued. "Young people were shamelessly and deliberately used in an attempt to distract from and shield the masked individuals as they took cover in a gazebo following the parade in the area of St Joseph's Place to change out of their parade clothing. "This is child criminal exploitation. It is utterly shameful." It is understood that around 150 people had gathered for the parade on Monday afternoon. Organisers said two bands, 500 participants and 100 supporters were expected. It has previously been billed as the 'Unfinished Revolution National Easter Commemoration', and left the Creggan shops at 2pm, ending at a New IRA monument in the Bogside. Patrick McClean worked on a building site in Dublin after quitting football back in February 2023, but later rejoined the sport that year, getting picked up again by the Glens. Both Patrick and James McClean grew up in the predominantly nationalist Creggan area of Derry, with the latter often making controversy in the news for his refusal to wear a poppy whilst playing matches during Remembrance Day weekend each year.
Sunday World
21-04-2025
- Sunday World
Two arrests after petrol bombs hurled at PSNI during disorder at New IRA parade in Derry
A number of items including a van were seized after officers were attacked PSNI Area Commander of Derry City & Strabane, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney, said that despite parade organisers' claims that they wanted to hold a dignified commemoration, 'what we saw was the complete opposite'. "From the commencement of the parade to when it dispersed, we saw masked individuals, which we believe at this time to be a breach of the Parades Commission determination,' she added. "As these masked individuals made their way towards the dispersal point on Lecky Road, disorder developed in the area of Nailors Row from around 2.50pm. "Petrol bombs, fireworks and masonry were thrown which resulted in nearby Bishop Street (Without) being closed for a time for public safety reasons. Members of the public were diverted away from that area in the City Walls. "This disorder involving young people was orchestrated. We have no doubt about this. "Young people were shamelessly and deliberately used in an attempt to distract from and shield the masked individuals as they took cover in a gazebo following the parade in the area of St. Joseph's Place to change out of their parade clothing. "This is child criminal exploitation. It is utterly shameful." Chief Superintendent Kearney said two vehicles – one in the Frances Street area and another in the Fanad Drive area – were stopped following the parade as part of a proactive policing operation resulting in two suspects being detained. 'Two men, aged 30 and 55, were arrested under The Terrorism Act and have been taken to Musgrave Street Station for questioning,' she continued. 'One of the vehicles stopped (a van) was seized. "A number of items were also seized.' Around 150 people had gathered in Derry as the parade takes place in the city on Monday afternoon. The parade has previously been billed as the 'Unfinished Revolution National Easter Commemoration', and left the Creggan shops at 2pm, ending at a New IRA monument in the Bogside. Images from the parade in Derry showed a masked colour party leading those taking part in the parade. There were also young people alongside the parade, some who had petrol bombs. One young person was seen with a shopping trolley full of the objects. Masked colour party leads new IRA parade through Derry Before the parade set off, masked youths also gathered at the Creggan shops. Large groups of young people were also seen heading in the direction of the Derry Walls, with some throwing petrol bombs at police and gathering beside homes belonging to the elderly. Some fireworks were also lit by the young people involved. Masked members of a Dissident Republican colour party take part in a commemorative march in Derry. Pic by Paul Faith/AFP via Getty Images. Masked colour party leads new IRA parade through Derry Unionists hit out at 'morally repugnant' events after Michelle O'Neill speaks at republican Easter commemoration Meanwhile a group of men departed a bus wearing berets and military-style gear. Roads in the Iniscarn and Eastway area had lamp posts freshly painted with the Irish tricolour and IRA signs attached. DUP Foyle MLA Gary Middleton condemned the appearance of paramilitary symbols and uniforms during the parade and called for 'swift police action'. 'I am deeply concerned by today's republican parade in Londonderry, which blatantly defies the Parades Commission's determination,' he said. "The display of paramilitary-style uniforms, proscribed flags, and symbols associated with terrorism is not only provocative to the people of this city who want to move forward in peace but also outside the law. 'This event, organised by individuals linked to the New IRA, represents a glorification of terror and a rejection of the democratic path. It is unacceptable that, in 2025, we are still witnessing such public displays of hatred and division. 'The PSNI have monitored this parade but their action must not stop at that. There must be charges and prosecutions for any breaches of the law. Those who flout legal rulings and glorify terrorism must face the consequences. 'Londonderry deserves better. The vast majority of people, from all backgrounds, want a peaceful future free from the shadow of violence. We stand with them.' The New IRA on Parade in Derry on April 21st 2025 (Photo by Garrett Hargan) For the first time ever its organisers sought permission from the Parades Commission for the event which was granted. Last year the Parades Commission received partial notification of a parade for the first time but indicated it was not submitted 28 days in advance which is the norm. Therefore, this is the first year that an application was submitted and accepted by the Parades Commission following intervention from leaders in the community. It's understood that those organising the parade hoped that with it recognised as a legal march there would be assurances of no police presence but the PSNI did not make any such agreement. The parade is taking a different route, with those in the community believing it would help to avoid a number of flashpoints such as arrests at the City Cemetery gates. Rather than starting at Central Drive and ending at the City Cemetery which is about half a mile, this year's parade covers more than a mile, ending at what Saoradh calls the 'People's Monument' at Free Derry Corner. Around 500 participants were expected with two bands registered, one of them from Glasgow. The Parades Commission noted that 'historically, there has been serious criminal offending associated with this parade' and urged those organising and participating to ensure it doesn't happen again. A condition was imposed that 'no paramilitary-style clothing' should be worn or flags, bannerettes or symbols relating to proscribed organisations displayed. PSNI vehicles have been attacked in recent years. The New IRA on Parade in Derry on April 21st 2025 (Photo by Garrett Hargan) Last year, when police stayed out of Creggan and monitored the parade with a drone and from a helicopter, a number of young people threw petrol bombs at journalists and photographers who were covering events on the day. Prior to this year's parade, Saoradh said its 'Unfinished Revolution Easter Commemoration' would be carried out in a 'dignified and respectful manner'. A statement added: 'We remind all involved that this is a solemn occasion of remembrance and political expression. 'As such, we demand the Crown Forces to stay away and refrain from any provocative or heavy-handed presence that would only serve to increase tensions and disrespect the memory of those being commemorated. 'We call on all supporters and the broader Republican family to join us in paying tribute in a disciplined and appropriate fashion.' With the parade concluding at Free Derry Corner there was some concern that young people may seek to target police, if there was a presence in the area. It comes after a source said there was a rise in tensions as the PSNI recently moved in to remove wooden pallets that had been gathered in Meenan Square, months ahead of an annual bonfire.
Belfast Telegraph
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Belfast Telegraph
Apprentice Boys of Derry: Thousands line streets of Lisburn for Easter parade as marching season begins
It marked the first official day of the 2025 marching season, and commemorates the start of Londonderry city's siege. The parade made its way through the centre of Lisburn this year, starting from Wallace Park at 12.30pm for a tour of the city. Bands came from as far away as Fermanagh, Ballymena, Armagh city and Newtownstewart in Co Tyrone. The bands headed south and performed a tour of the city centre, ending at Altona Road. There were 6,000 participants listed, with the organiser being the Apprentice Boys of Derry Belfast and District Amalgamated Committee. David Hoey, the general secretary of the Apprentice Boys, described the annual Easter tradition as 'just a good, solid, joyous day' while governor William Walker declared the turnout 'magnificent". Whilst this Easter has been a particularly rainy one, it remained largely dry and bright for the entirety of the event. Thousands of people across Northern Ireland have taken part in parades held in recent days, from both unionist and nationalist organisations and communities. Police were attacked with petrol bombs as masked men led a New IRA parade through the streets of Derry. Around 150 people had gathered for the parade on Monday afternoon. Organisers said two bands, 500 participants and 100 supporters were expected. It has previously been billed as the 'Unfinished Revolution National Easter Commemoration', and left the Creggan shops at 2pm, ending at a New IRA monument in the Bogside. Images from the parade in Derry showed a masked colour party leading those taking part in the parade.
Belfast Telegraph
21-04-2025
- Belfast Telegraph
Two arrests after petrol bombs hurled at PSNI during disorder at New IRA parade in Derry
PSNI Area Commander of Derry City & Strabane, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney, said that despite parade organisers' claims that they wanted to hold a dignified commemoration, 'what we saw was the complete opposite'. "From the commencement of the parade to when it dispersed, we saw masked individuals, which we believe at this time to be a breach of the Parades Commission determination,' she added. "As these masked individuals made their way towards the dispersal point on Lecky Road, disorder developed in the area of Nailors Row from around 2.50pm. "Petrol bombs, fireworks and masonry were thrown which resulted in nearby Bishop Street (Without) being closed for a time for public safety reasons. Members of the public were diverted away from that area in the City Walls. "This disorder involving young people was orchestrated. We have no doubt about this. "Young people were shamelessly and deliberately used in an attempt to distract from and shield the masked individuals as they took cover in a gazebo following the parade in the area of St. Joseph's Place to change out of their parade clothing. "This is child criminal exploitation. It is utterly shameful." Chief Superintendent Kearney said two vehicles – one in the Frances Street area and another in the Fanad Drive area – were stopped following the parade as part of a proactive policing operation resulting in two suspects being detained. 'Two men, aged 30 and 55, were arrested under The Terrorism Act and have been taken to Musgrave Street Station for questioning,' she continued. 'One of the vehicles stopped (a van) was seized. "A number of items were also seized.' Masked colour party leads new IRA parade through Derry Around 150 people had gathered in Derry as the parade takes place in the city on Monday afternoon. The parade has previously been billed as the 'Unfinished Revolution National Easter Commemoration', and left the Creggan shops at 2pm, ending at a New IRA monument in the Bogside. Images from the parade in Derry showed a masked colour party leading those taking part in the parade. There were also young people alongside the parade, some who had petrol bombs. One young person was seen with a shopping trolley full of the objects. Before the parade set off, masked youths also gathered at the Creggan shops. Large groups of young people were also seen heading in the direction of the Derry Walls, with some throwing petrol bombs at police and gathering beside homes belonging to the elderly. Some fireworks were also lit by the young people involved. Meanwhile a group of men departed a bus wearing berets and military-style gear. Roads in the Iniscarn and Eastway area had lamp posts freshly painted with the Irish tricolour and IRA signs attached. DUP Foyle MLA Gary Middleton condemned the appearance of paramilitary symbols and uniforms during the parade and called for 'swift police action'. 'I am deeply concerned by today's republican parade in Londonderry, which blatantly defies the Parades Commission's determination,' he said. "The display of paramilitary-style uniforms, proscribed flags, and symbols associated with terrorism is not only provocative to the people of this city who want to move forward in peace but also outside the law. 'This event, organised by individuals linked to the New IRA, represents a glorification of terror and a rejection of the democratic path. It is unacceptable that, in 2025, we are still witnessing such public displays of hatred and division. 'The PSNI have monitored this parade but their action must not stop at that. There must be charges and prosecutions for any breaches of the law. Those who flout legal rulings and glorify terrorism must face the consequences. 'Londonderry deserves better. The vast majority of people, from all backgrounds, want a peaceful future free from the shadow of violence. We stand with them.' For the first time ever its organisers sought permission from the Parades Commission for the event which was granted. Last year the Parades Commission received partial notification of a parade for the first time but indicated it was not submitted 28 days in advance which is the norm. Therefore, this is the first year that an application was submitted and accepted by the Parades Commission following intervention from leaders in the community. It's understood that those organising the parade hoped that with it recognised as a legal march there would be assurances of no police presence but the PSNI did not make any such agreement. The parade is taking a different route, with those in the community believing it would help to avoid a number of flashpoints such as arrests at the City Cemetery gates. Rather than starting at Central Drive and ending at the City Cemetery which is about half a mile, this year's parade covers more than a mile, ending at what Saoradh calls the 'People's Monument' at Free Derry Corner. Around 500 participants were expected with two bands registered, one of them from Glasgow. The Parades Commission noted that 'historically, there has been serious criminal offending associated with this parade' and urged those organising and participating to ensure it doesn't happen again. A condition was imposed that 'no paramilitary-style clothing' should be worn or flags, bannerettes or symbols relating to proscribed organisations displayed. PSNI vehicles have been attacked in recent years. Last year, when police stayed out of Creggan and monitored the parade with a drone and from a helicopter, a number of young people threw petrol bombs at journalists and photographers who were covering events on the day. Prior to this year's parade, Saoradh said its 'Unfinished Revolution Easter Commemoration' would be carried out in a 'dignified and respectful manner'. A statement added: 'We remind all involved that this is a solemn occasion of remembrance and political expression. 'As such, we demand the Crown Forces to stay away and refrain from any provocative or heavy-handed presence that would only serve to increase tensions and disrespect the memory of those being commemorated. 'We call on all supporters and the broader Republican family to join us in paying tribute in a disciplined and appropriate fashion.' With the parade concluding at Free Derry Corner there was some concern that young people may seek to target police, if there was a presence in the area. It comes after a source said there was a rise in tensions as the PSNI recently moved in to remove wooden pallets that had been gathered in Meenan Square, months ahead of an annual bonfire.
