McAleer to attend PSNI interview over Garvaghy Road protest

West Tyrone MLA Declan McAleer has confirmed he will attend a PSNI interview in relation to a peaceful protest on the Garvaghy Road.

The Sinn Féin representative said he had received a letter from police concerning the protest and would attend an interview in the period ahead.

Mr McAleer said Sinn Féin had stood in solidarity with Garvaghy Road residents to protect 28 years of peace amid what he described as provocation and the threat of an unwanted march through their community.

“Sinn Féin stood in solidarity with the residents of the Garvaghy Road to protect 28 years of peace, in the face of provocation and the threat of an unwanted march through their community,” he said.

“Standing up for what is right is always the right thing to do.”

Mr McAleer said Sinn Féin would continue to support residents of the Garvaghy Road, who he said should be able to live in peace and free from sectarian intimidation.

He also expressed solidarity with residents of the Lower Ormeau Road, who he said were facing the threat of an unwanted march through their community.

“From right across Ireland and the world, people stood and spoke with one voice to protect that peace and to say clearly that they would not be dragged back,” he added.

“There is no going back to the past. Not now. Not ever.”