Understand
DUP MP Carla Lockhart says unionists are angry over Michelle O'Neill's role in protests
Overview
DUP MP Carla Lockhart has stated that unionist voters are deeply angry at First Minister Michelle O'Neill over her participation in protests against the Drumcree parade on the Garvaghy Road. Lockhart asserted that it cannot be business as usual at Stormont and suggested her party should consider options to remove O'Neill, though DUP leadership has previously ruled out collapsing the power-sharing institutions. The controversy follows a decision by the secretary of state to ban the Portadown District Lodge from marching down the Garvaghy Road.
Key points
- DUP MP Carla Lockhart said unionist voters are angry at First Minister Michelle O'Neill for participating in protests on the Garvaghy Road.
- Lockhart stated that it 'cannot be business as usual' at Stormont and wants the DUP to consider using its position to remove O'Neill.
- O'Neill defended her involvement, stating she was proud to stand with the local community in opposition to the Orange Order parade.
- The secretary of state banned the Portadown District Lodge from marching down the Garvaghy Road, citing advice that it could lead to serious disorder.
- Despite Lockhart's calls for profound consequences, DUP leader Gavin Robinson and deputy first minister Emma Little-Pengelly previously indicated they would not collapse the power-sharing institutions.