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PSNI to Interview Suspected Drumcree Dispute Lawbreakers
Police said individuals suspected of offences will receive interview letters as investigators build evidential packages in the Garvaghy Road dispute.
On Thursday, the PSNI announced it will begin issuing letters to individuals suspected of committing criminal offences during the ongoing Garvaghy Road parade dispute. Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck confirmed the investigation is moving to the "next phase."
The investigation relates to alleged breaches of a Parades Commission decision permitting an Orange Order parade to travel from Drumcree Church down Garvaghy Road for the first time in almost 30 years. Protests prevented the legally permitted march.
Police confirmed the letters concern "the interview process" 12 days after protesters blocked 35 Orangemen from proceeding. Sinn Fein characterized the parade as an act of "intimidation," while police describe the protest as unlawful.
Democratic Unionist Party leaders welcomed the police action, stating the public needs to see "the rule of law" stand. First Minister O'Neill defended her protest participation, declaring "when the law is wrong, I will stand firmly against it."
Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan hopes the Court of Appeal will deliver judgment on the parade decision in a "swift enough time frame." O'Neill faces a no-confidence motion in the Northern Ireland Assembly next week.