Dissident republican group Saoradh condemns attack on media in Derry

Attacks on members of the media after an Easter Rising commemoration march in Derry on Monday, has been condemned by the dissident republican party, Saoradh.

The event, organised by the Derry 1916 Commemoration Committee, started in Central Drive before making its way to the City Cemetery.

A number of young people with masks covering their faces were at the parade carrying crates of petrol bombs and lumps of masonry.

Members of the media came under attack after the march, with a number of petrol bombs thrown. A van was also burnt out,

Masked men taking part in the Colour Party at the Easter Monday Commemoration. (Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)

Following the attacks on members of the media, Saoradh representative Paddy Gallagher said the party played no part in organising the event and blamed attacks of members of the media as coming from an "anti community element".

Mr Gallagher said: “Whilst Saoradh didn’t organise yesterday’s events in Derry, and we can’t speak on behalf of those who did organise them, the misguided actions of young people targeting the media occurred after the dignified Easter commemoration ended. Those actions are not representative of republicanism, nor the wider Creggan community.

“Saoradh does not condone attacks on the media. Once Saoradh representatives became aware of the situation they attempted to steer those involved away from media personnel.

“An anti community element, all of whom are well known, used the cover of the Easter commemoration to further their own community destruction. In the process of this a number of items were set alight at the Creggan Shops, including a company van belonging to a Saoradh member visiting the city from Dublin.“

“Saoradh representatives will continue to work alongside members of the Creggan community to ensure anti community behaviour remains at a minimum.”

The burnt out van in the Central Drive area of Creggan on Monday.

Following Monday's scenes a police investigation has been launched.

PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Bobby Singleton said: “What we saw unfold in Creggan on Easter Monday, in particular the attacks on journalists, was extremely disappointing and completely unnecessary.

“We are supporting those affected and have commenced an investigation with a view to bringing those responsible to justice."