Men wearing '˜INLA symbols' took part in republican parade

The police have told a DUP representative that a 'extensive evidence gathering operation' took place during a parade by 'men in black paramilitary uniforms' in Belfast on Sunday.
By The Newsroom
Published 25th Apr 2016, 18:09 BST
Updated 25th Apr 2016, 23:34 BST
Members of Republican Sinn Fein march to the GPO on O'Connell Street in Dublin, during a ceremony to mark the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday April 23, 2016. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA WireMembers of Republican Sinn Fein march to the GPO on O'Connell Street in Dublin, during a ceremony to mark the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday April 23, 2016. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire
Members of Republican Sinn Fein march to the GPO on O'Connell Street in Dublin, during a ceremony to mark the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday April 23, 2016. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Nelson McCausland said he had spoken to police about a small republican parade, which was staged separately from the march held in the city centre.

According to the Assembly candidate, the parade included a paramilitary colour party and men wearing INLA symbols.

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“This smaller parade was organised by the Republican Socialist Commemoration committee. It included three bands from Scotland with one, the Martyrs na hEireann which INLA terrorist Dominic McGlinchy was closely involved in establishing.

“The parade was led by a colour party and company of men in black paramilitary uniforms. Each of them had a five-pointed star on his beret; a symbol linked with the INLA. The uniforms were also identical to those worn by INLA marchers in Londonderry.

“I have spoken to PSNI officers this morning and received an assurance that an “extensive evidence gathering operation” was in place during the parade and that the process of examining evidence would begin today.

“Under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act (2000) it is illegal to parade in a uniform associated with a proscribed organisation. I would urge the police to act swiftly and build cases which can be passed to the PPS. Those involved in this illegal activity must be brought before the courts.”

Related topics:DUPBelfast