BREAKING: Michelle O'Neill Invited for Police Interview Over Garvaghy Road Protest

Friday, 9 October 2026

Northern Ireland's First Minister Michelle O'Neill has confirmed she has been invited for a police interview following her participation in protests against an Orange Order march on the Garvaghy Road in Portadown.

The Sinn Féin vice-president received correspondence from the PSNI as part of an investigation into alleged offences linked to the ongoing Drumcree dispute.

O'Neill has confirmed she will cooperate with the investigation but remains steadfast in her support for local residents.

The controversy began when protesters blocked an Orange Order parade from proceeding through the predominantly nationalist area on 27 September.

Unionist politicians have criticised O'Neill's involvement, arguing that public representatives must uphold the law regardless of their political position.

The dispute has reignited tensions surrounding parading rights, community consent and the legacy of Drumcree.

O'Neill also faces a motion of no confidence at Stormont as the political fallout continues.

No charges against O'Neill have been announced.