Tensions run high in Northern Ireland after contentious march given go-ahead

The High Court in Belfast gave permission for an Orange Order parade to proceed down the Garvaghy Road in Portadown, marking the first time in nearly 30 years the march has been allowed on that street. Thousands of protesters, some wearing balaclavas, gathered to block the marchers, who support Northern Ireland remaining part of the United Kingdom. The area is a known flashpoint between unionists and Irish nationalists, many of whom are Catholic and seek unification with the Republic of Ireland.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham called for calm on Sunday, stating that Northern Ireland has made significant gains and should not see them reversed. Jon Boutcher, head of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, urged influential people to encourage others to follow the law following the large protest blocking the road. Boutcher reported that there were no signs of violence.