A criminal investigation into the unlawful blocking of Garvaghy Road is expected to commence next week, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Gavin Robinson has stated. The PSNI chief constable had previously announced an investigation after protesters blocked the road to prevent an Orange Order parade.
Protesters remain on Garvaghy Road, and the Orange Order maintains a presence at Drumcree church, following the breakdown of talks to resolve the parading dispute. First Minister Michelle O'Neill, who attended the protest, said she understood the law but chose to "stand in solidarity" with residents.
A legal challenge by residents to prevent the march, initially scheduled for Friday, has been postponed until Monday. Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant met with Orangemen and Garvaghy Road residents on Thursday night, but the discussions concluded without agreement.
The stalemate has led to 13 councillors being reported to the local government standards watchdog, with 25 allegations received concerning potential breaches of their code of conduct. This follows accusations from unionist parties that nationalist politicians acted unlawfully during the protest.