Written question asked by Lord Maginnis of Drumglass (Ulster Unionist Party) on Monday, 30 March 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 21 April 1998. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 April 1998 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many persons have been charged with offences relating to obstructing (a) the republican Rosslea Martyrs procession on 12th October 1997 and (b) traditional Orange Order and Black Institution church parades during 1997 in Newtownbutler. - Inc figs.

Answer: Mr. Maginnis: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many persons have been charged with offences relating to obstructing (a) the republican Rosslea Martyrs procession on 12 October 1997 and (b) traditional Orange Order and Black Institution church parades during 1997 in Newtownbutler. [37383] Mr. Ingram: Of the thirty-nine people interviewed and charged in relation to the Rosslea Martyrs Parade thirty-eight have been charged with `obstructing a lawful activity in a public place'. Other offences charged include `possession of an offensive weapon', `disorderly behaviour', `obstructing police' and `dangerous driving'. In relation to the Royal Black Preceptory parade in Newtownbutler, thirteen persons have been charged with the principal offence of `obstructing a lawful activity in a public place' and a variety of ancillary offences including `disorderly behaviour', `riotous behaviour', `possession of an offensive weapon', `provocative conduct', `criminal damage' and `playing a recording of sounds which are threatening, abusive, or insulting'.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 310 c601W; 37383
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Northern Ireland Public order offences Parades Republicanism Orange Order
Contains statistics: Yes