Supporters of dissident republicans have gathered in Derry city cemetery for an Easter parade on Monday despite calls for the gathering to be rescheduled.
Saoradh held the parade on the same day of the third anniversary of journalist Lyra McKee’s murder by its New IRA military wing.
There was a heavy police presence in the area as a PSNI helicopter hovered overhead, while a police vehicle was positioned on Westland Street near where the parade was taking place.
The New IRA’s political wing was warned of the potential for “conflict” at the ‘Unfinished Revolution National Easter Commemoration’.
The Parades Commission ordered participants not to wear any paramilitary-style clothing after a complaint by the late writer’s family.
Lyra’s partner Sara Canning said those involved in the dissident republican parade today had “no respect”.
“They have no sense of understanding, no empathy as to what we’re going through – there’s no respect for her or us,”said Ms Canning.
Guildhall vigil for Lyra McKee
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood hit out at those organising today’s ‘Unfinished Revoluntionary’ parade in the city.
The Foyle MP tweeted: “The people of Derry are standing with Lyra McKee’s family today. We’ll not be dragged back by this nonsense.
“You represent no-one, you will achieve nothing, your time is up.
“Go away and leave it to the rest of us.”
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