PSNI warning on dissident threat
The PSNI has said that it “remains vigilant” about the threat posed by dissident republicans.
It comes as unionists call for further details about where any threat of violence was emanating from around the Drumcree dispute.
The PSNI said in a statement: “We are aware of commentary and, whilst we do not comment on specific security matters, the threat level in Northern Ireland remains at substantial meaning that an attack is likely.
"The PSNI remains vigilant in response to the threat posed by dissident republicans.
"Incidents in Dunmurry and Lurgan earlier this year underline the importance of this vigilance and we remain resolute in our work to counter all forms of terrorist threat and to keep communities safe across Northern Ireland.”
In his weekly e-mail to party members, DUP leader Gavin Robinson has said “transparency is key to understanding the decisions taken”.
Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant stepped in a week ago to ban the Orange Order march from passing along the mainly nationalist Garvaghy Road, after a request from Northern Ireland’s chief constable Jon Boutcher.
In his message, Mr Robinson said: “If the threat of terror was serious enough to halt a lawful parade, people should be told.
“If it was not, they should be told that too...
“As this returns to court on Monday, the chief constable must set out the full picture of the dissident threat to his officers and to Portadown district.
“Transparency is key to understanding the decisions taken.”
Meanwhile last night, the PSNI announced that it is looking into six un-notified processions this week on the Shankill Road in west Belfast, Dunloy, Tennent Street in north Belfast, Bangor, the Waterside area of Londonderry, and Newtownabbey.
It comes after some loyalist bands announced that they were suspending cooperation with the PSNI and the Parades Commission over the Drumcree affair.
Assistant Chief Constable Anthony McNally said “we would remind anyone organising a public procession or parade of their responsibility to comply with the relevant notification requirements”.