The scene on Shipquay Street during Saturday’s solidarity march in support of the people of Palestine.
The PSNI is to take no action against those who “lay dead” on Derry’s Shipquay Street during a Gaza solidarity march held in the city at the weekend.
Chief Inspector Jon Burrows, the PSNI Area Commander, confirmed police were notified about Saturday’s demonstration – organised by the Derry Anti-War Coalition – and while the lie-down protest delayed the parade for “about two minutes,” said police were “satisfied that no offences were committed as a result of this delay.”
CI Burrows was speaking after what was described as a “useful and productive” meeting with DUP representatives in the city who had sought a meeting over the recent protests to highlight the violence in Palestine.
Pointing out the Parades Commission did not issue a determination in respect of the parade, CI Burrows said: “Our main priorities are to keep people safe and to ensure that parades are peacefully conducted within the law and in accordance with any Parades Commission determinations that may apply.
“We police all public events in a proportionate manner.
“We would encourage those involved in demonstrations, parades or protests of any kind to show dignity and respect, but ultimately we will uphold the law.”
The DUP had sought the meeting after the party said it had received “numerous complaints” from people who said they “felt intimidated” during what they described as ‘anti-Israel protests’.
They also claimed a number of local businesses had been “targeted” by those involved in the rallies and warned that the protests could result in job losses.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the DUP said “serious questions were raised in relation to the recent anti-Israel protests and marches”.
It added: “We have requested that the PSNI make their position clear in relation to future protests as well as what action is being taken regarding those that have already taken place.
“Reassurances have also been sought from the Parades Commission regarding their notification process and the legality of such protests and parades.”
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