Thousands attend Portadown rally backing local Orangemen over banned Garvaghy Road parade as MP pledges to 'keep fighting'

Carla Lockhart led the parade, alongside the loyalist campaigner Jamie Bryson – who has been providing legal advice to the Orange Order in its bid to complete the parade, banned in 1998.

Despite permission for a scaled-back parade being granted by the Parades Commission – a decision upheld by the courts – the procession was later banned by the Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant.

The dispute has led to pronounced divisions within unionism, including within the DUP, about how the party should respond to the actions of Sinn Féin politicians over the parade.

A number of the party’s elected representatives, including first minister Michelle O’Neill, were involved in a protest which blocked the Garvaghy Road. The republican politician was interviewed by police officers investigating her participation in the protest last week, as was party leader Mary Lou McDonald.

The Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart wants the first minister removed from office, pointing out that the DUP has it within its gift to pull out of the joint office.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly – whose continuation in the role is at the heart of the row currently engulfing unionism – did not attend Saturday night’s protest, but sent support on social media.

The DUP MLA said: “A stormy and cold night, but sending a strong message. People are rightly angry at the behaviour of those who have thumbed their nose at law and have defied the decisions of the parades commission, the courts and the PSNI.

“We are all deeply proud of our traditions and give them our absolute support - we have been deeply hurt and angered by the abuse and hatred our traditions, identity and culture has had to endure.

“Well done to all the bands and those who participated, and in such a dignified way. The lawful behaviour of the Orange and all those who support them is in stark contrast to those who opposed and oppose them”.

Addressing the crowd in Portadown on Saturday night, the DUP MP Carla Lockhart told the crowd: “Walk tall, walk proud, keep the faith, and keep fighting for this wee province.

“It’s great to see people getting the beat of the drum back in their hearts”.

Ms Lockhart finished her speech by saying: “I’ll say one last thing, and I said I wouldn’t enter into politics, but profound consequences must mean profound consequences.

“Michelle O’Neill must go. That’s where I stand, and this lady is not for turning.”

Boos erupted throughout the crowd at the mention of Ms O’Neill’s name, and chants of “the first minister has to go” were heard.

Posting on social media, the TUV leader Jim Allister said the “huge crowd” in Portadown “confirms the anger across the unionist community” and demonstrated “support for the demand that O’Neill must go”.

“The message to Gavin Robinson is clear ‘Get off your knees and get that woman out’”, the North Antrim MP said.

Members of the Orange Order are seeking a judicial review after the Northern Ireland Secretary made a decision on October 9 to halt the march from going along the Garvaghy Road.

Portadown Orange Order District Master Nigel Dawson said that Sir Chris Bryant has failed the unionist community.

“To our Secretary of State, we say how disappointed we are in you, as a minister in our government, charged with upholding law and order, protecting our rights, delivering equality, treating everyone with respect,” he said.

“I’m afraid you too have failed our community, and you must reflect on your suitability to remain in office. Also, friends, the fight continues. Our cause is just. We reserve the right to go to the Supreme Court, and you know what? We might just do it.

“Our country cannot be ruled by the mob and the lawbreakers and the threat of violence. After 28 years, we have won the right to return home via our traditional route, and Portadown District intends to exercise that right on a date and time of our choosing.”