The PSNI Chief Constable has warned of “bad actors” in reference to the ongoing Drumcree dispute who may “incite any criminality or allow Northern Ireland to go backwards”.
Jon Boutcher spoke out on Monday, urging people to be “respectful” and to “consider the views of everyone” in the dispute over Orangemen attempting to march down Portadown’s nationalist Garvaghy Road.
His appeal came as Garvaghy Road residents failed in their Court of Appeal challenge against the Parades Commission determination allowing the march to go ahead.
The march was banned on Friday by Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Bryant, after a formal appeal for him to intervene by Mr Boutcher.
Monday also saw Sinn Féin ministers including First Minister Michelle O’Neill face votes of no confidence at the Assembly over their participation in a protest on the Garvaghy Road.
Mr Boutcher said the proposed parade by Orangemen “could not be safely undertaken”.
Mr Boutcher said on Monday that the PSNI “have been mindful of the importance of facilitating the determination” of the Parades Commission.
“However, that determination did not mean, as many people have suggested, that the police had to ensure the parade could proceed at all costs,” he said.
He said his officers have “continued at all times to operate independently and impartially”.
“We planned and resourced for all potential outcomes from a peaceful procession through to serious and sustained disorder,” he said of the operation in Portadown on September 27.
“The response of officers on the ground throughout has been exemplary,” he said.
“We have continually reviewed all options and engaged with all parties.
“It was my ongoing assessment that short of a major public order operation, that would require substantial numbers of protected officers and specialist capabilities with a likelihood of prolonged disorder resulting in injuries to the public and officers, with an impact beyond Portadown, the parade could not be safely undertaken.
“My overriding responsibility is to keep people safe, that includes members of the Orange Order, the Garvaghy Road residents and communities beyond Portadown. Such a major public order operation would have presented risks to both parties and had long term consequences for trust and confidence in policing and the peace process.
“The place for resolving this dispute must not be on the streets of Northern Ireland.
Orangemen make their way from Drumcree Church as police form a barricade to prevent them entering the Garvaghy Road (Brian Lawless/PA)
“There is considerable public and online commentary about the rule of law and trust and confidence in policing and the Executive. The history of Northern Ireland and loss of life associated with such disputes make that inevitable as emotions run high.
“I ask that people be respectful and consider the views of everyone and to not let a minority of bad actors incite any criminality or allow Northern Ireland to go backwards.
“I have directed that the criminal justice process continue at pace regarding those who engaged in unlawful protest, the courts are the place to address such behaviour.
“I also want to be very clear about the need for everyone to act in a responsible and measured fashion at times like this.”
Mr Boutcher added: “The overwhelming majority of people in Northern Ireland want to live happy, prosperous and safe lives and are dismayed that we are back in this position.
“I appeal to everyone to use moderate and sensible language, and to act lawfully in seeking a way forward to resolve the dispute. We all have a responsibility to ensuring a peaceful future for Northern Ireland, especially those in leadership roles. There has been no disorder at Drumcree which should be viewed positively by everyone.
“I am mindful of ongoing legal proceedings and ask everyone to respect those processes and act with decency towards those who attend court.”