Chair Police Federation for Northern Ireland

The Chair of the Police Federation for Northern Ireland Liam Kelly is calling for calm heads and respect for the rule of law ahead following the Court ruling approving a restricted Orange Order procession along Portadown’s Garvaghy Road.

Mr Kelly said: “Our officers will police the out-workings of this Judgement without fear or favour. Their job will be to maintain the rule of law and see that there is full compliance with the Parades Commission determination. I remind those who disagree with or oppose the decision and procession that they, too, must comply with the law and, so, I would appeal to anyone who wishes to protest to do so in a lawful, measured and ultimately peaceful manner.

“Unfortunately, over the last 24 hours there has been a raft of unhelpful commentary in both mainstream media and social media platforms. I would particularly appeal to our politicians and community/civic representatives to dial down the rhetoric and work constructively to calm heads to help ensure that our officers can safely carry out their duties.

“Our officers want the policing deployment to be a safe environment for them and all who take opposing viewpoints. For that to happen we need to see calm heads and full compliance with the law.”