Following a series of legal challenges, the court upheld a Parades Commission determination allowing 35 members of Portadown Orange District to return from Drumcree Church along the Garvaghy Road on Sunday morning (September 27). However, hundreds of protestors blocked the route citing their right to live peacefully and refused to leave despite PSNI warnings to disperse. With tensions remaining high in the area, police turned back members of Portadown District as they attempted to march on several occasions.
Monday saw a series of meetings including representatives from both sides holding separate talks with Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant. Here’s a pictorial look at some key moments to date.
5. In Pictures
Garvaghy Road residents spokesperson Breandán Mac Cionnaith and solicitor Darragh Mackin speak to the press after having a meeting with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Sir Chris Bryant at Hillsborough Castle. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Photo: Jonathan Porter / Press Eye
6. In Pictures
DUP MP Carla Lockhart pictured after meeting with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Sir Chris Bryant at Hillsborough Castle. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Photo: Jonathan Porter / Press Eye
7. In Pictures
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Sir Chris Bryant pictured at Hillsborough Castle, where he was meeting different parties involved in the Drumcree dispute.Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Photo: Jonathan Porter / Press Eye
8. In Pictures
The protest at the top of the Garvaghy Road on Sunday afternoon. Photo: TONY HENDRON