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Riots Break out in Belfast twelfth of July parade
Riots Break out in Belfast twelfth of July parade
Belfast twelfth of July parade turns to riots. Riots erupt during the twelfth of July Parade on Woovdale road in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Ardoyne is seen as being a flash point area during the traditional Twelfth of July Orange marches, which commemorate the victory of the Protestant William of Orange over the Catholic King James II. It is a predominantly nationalist area, which borders the predominantly unionist Woodvale. Although the parade was allowed to march past Ardoyne on the way out, it was not allowed to return back past the area’s shops. However, when the parade was stopped at the ‘interface’ between the two areas, police were pelted with bricks, bottles, metal ladders, bolts and masonry, while the car then ran over the girl. Police Federation NI chairman Mark Lindsay said: “These rioters had obviously come prepared to cause disorder. “Once again, officers demonstrated their patience and professionalism even though their lines were under attack. “The scenes we witnessed were deplorable and shameful. The behaviour of those who viciously targeted police lines was mindless and unacceptable. “Like others, I would appeal for calm. My thoughts are with my colleagues who were injured and those hundreds of officers who continue to work to bring order to challenging interface areas.” The Orange Order also condemned the rioters. A spokesman said: “Those involved in violence should desist. “It is not only counter-productive but also plain wrong. Such actions are only strengthening the hand of those who wish to further curtail our parades.” Northern Ireland Secretary of State Theresa Villiers said: “I condemn these disgraceful attacks on the police. Those responsible do nothing to further the cause they claim to promote. They damage Northern Ireland and wreck a day which should be about respectful celebration of cultural tradition. “My thoughts are with all those injured.”
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