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Police Feared a Firearm Attack if Drumcree Parade Went Ahead, Court Told
The Orange Order says police relied on limited intelligence and overstepped their role in blocking the march.
- On Monday, the High Court in Belfast began hearing a legal challenge against Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant's decision to ban the annual Drumcree parade, brought by a Portadown Orangeman.
- Sir Chris banned the parade on October 9, ending a two-week standoff following the Parades Commission's initial approval, citing police advice regarding potential disorder along the Garvaghy Road.
- PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher advised the ban, warning of "catastrophic" consequences for the peace process, as intelligence reports stated it was "almost certain" dissident republicans would use firearms if officers attempted to clear the route.
- Representing the Orange Order, counsel Richard McConkey argued that Boutcher's advice relied on "wholly political" considerations, telling the court the Chief Constable's involvement was "immaterial" to valid policing decisions.
- Mr Justice Scoffield told the court he would reach a "swift" decision on the challenge later this week or next, as the High Court continues to weigh the competing legal arguments.
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PSNI feared attack on police over Drumcree parade
The PSNI believed it was possible that dissident republicans may have used guns and petrol bombs to attack police officers if they attempted to clear protesters blocking an Orange Order parade along the Garvaghy Road, the High Court in Belfast has been told.
·Ireland
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Evening Standard+5 Reposted by 5 other sources
Police feared a firearm attack if Drumcree parade went ahead, court told
An application for judicial review against the decision to ban the parade is being heard in Belfast.
·London, United Kingdom
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources11
Leaning Left4Leaning Right0Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution64% Center
Bias Distribution
- 64% of the sources are Center
64% Center
L 36%
C 64%
Factuality
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