Rival demonstrations planned in Glasgow over Orange parade

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Rival demonstrations have been planned in Glasgow following the controversy over the Orange Order parade in Garvaghy Road in Portadown, Northern Ireland last Sunday.

The Parades Commission gave the go ahead for the march down the road from Drumcree Church though a nationalist community for the first time in 28 years.

The Garvaghy Road Residents Coalition challenged the decision in court and protesters blocked the road to prevent the parade proceeding.

Protesters remained at the road after days and the marchers finally dispersed after several failed attempts to march the route but the dispute continues over whether the Orange Order has the right to march along the street.



The Orange Order tried on several occasions to begin the parade, but have been prevented by police.

The PSNI has said a protest in opposition to the parade on the Garvaghy Road is unlawful but that using force to move protesters risked people getting “seriously hurt”.

Talks involving the Northern Ireland Secretary and senior politicians were held in a bid to resolve the stalemate. The next appeal hearing is due on Friday October 2.

Now, supporters of both sides in Scotland are planning to stage their own protests in Glasgow city centre.

Posts have been circulated on social media for rival demos and Police Scotland is aware and planning to respond.

A post by ‘Glasgow Republican promotes an event by Cairde na Heireanne (Friends of Ireland) for an “emergency solidarity demo” stating “No Orange march on Garvaghy Road”.

It has been called for Sunday October 4 at 1pm at Buchanan Street steps.

A post by ‘Scottish Loyalists’ has called for supporters to gather earlier in the day at 11.30 am stating “let’s get ourselves down to Buchanan Street Steps this Sunday”.

It states: “Show our support for Portadown District” and “Hands Across the Water”.

A post states they have arranged the time in the morning to “take over the steps” first.

The city centre will be busy on Sunday as thousands of runners take part in the Great Scottish Run, with many roads closed.

Police Scotland said it is planning for any potential demonstrations.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of possible demonstrations taking place in Glasgow city centre on Sunday, 4 October, 2026.

“An appropriate policing plan is in place to maintain public safety."

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