An anti-racism protest is set to take place in Belfast city centre on Friday at the same time as a far-right demonstration.
Far-right protesters are due to gather at city hall, while a counter protest jointly organised by Unite Against Racism and Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (Nipsa) will also take place at the same time and location. It comes after the the outbreak of far-right protests and violent disorder in several parts of Northern Ireland over this past week.
More: Live updates as protests to take place in Belfast
More: What time are protests planned in Belfast city centre today?
There have been urgent calls for calm in the build-up to the two potentially merging.
When are they planned?
An anti-racism protest with ‘Unity Over Division’ is planned at Belfast City Hall from 4.30pm to 7pm on Friday. The ad for the protest has urged people to “take a stand against racism, fascism and Islamophobia by attending the peaceful counter protest.”
Far right protests are also reportedly set to take place at city hall on Friday at 5pm.
On Saturday, the ‘Belfast Welcomes Diversity Demo’ is urging people of all backgrounds to take part in the “vibrant and peaceful” demonstration which will assemble at Writers’ Square at noon and make its way towards City Hall.
What have the police said?
The PSNI have recently released a statement on planned protests, stating: ”We are aware of social media posts calling for protests across Northern Ireland in the week ahead.
“We urge anyone who plans to attend these protests to engage with us as we will be doing our part to ensure the safety of participants and to facilitate the lawful exercise of freedom of expression.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and will be engaging with groups likely to be affected by any protest activity.”
The PSNI have also confirmed they have called in for reinforcements due to the past week of tension.
Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones stated: “As a result of the ongoing street violence and disorder we have seen across Belfast since the weekend the Police Service of Northern Ireland has taken a decision to significantly mobilise the service. Unfortunately this will mean officers and staff working longer shifts and rest days.
“Increasing our resources and footprint across Northern Ireland in the coming days will enable us to manage planned events and deal with any sporadic incidents, including disorder.
“We have also submitted a request to the National Police Coordination Centre for additional officers from across the United Kingdom to support the policing operation.
“The Mutual Aid officers will provide vital resilience and support and will be given all of the necessary equipment and familiarisation training. Any officers who may come to Northern Ireland would specifically assist with the ongoing public disorder and protests and not every day policing. We will continue to keep this under review.”
Stormont reaction
Executive ministers met at Stormont Castle to discuss the violent disorder seen in Belfast. The Stormont Assembly was recalled alongside MLAs for a special sitting.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill has stated ministers are, “unequivocally collective in our determination to say no to racism.”
Politicians have also released statements on the outbreak of violence in a call for peace.
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn has stated: “The violence which has sowed fear in local communities and damaged business is totally unacceptable.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly has also said on the matter: “We stand united in opposition to all violence, racism and hate.”
Public Transport information
Translink have stated they will “liaise closely with the PSNI” with the possibility of disruption to routes covered by the planned protests, while also stating any changes to their services will be posted on their social media pages.
WhatsApp misinformation
Police warned that social media messages reportedly from the PSNI urging employers to allow staff in Belfast city centre to leave work early is “misinformation”.
A Whatsapp message circulating urged businesses to “let staff leave by 2pm or earlier” on Friday ahead of planned protests in the city.
The message states: “The PSNI anticipates potential conflict and has recalled constables from annual leave to assist as well as making a request for additional forces from the rest of the UK.
“The PSNI advises employers to release staff as early as possible, as gatherings are expected to begin earlier than scheduled.
“It is recommended to let staff leave by 2pm or earlier.
“All areas are at risk as the PSNI cannot predict where potential conflict may arise.”
However, in a statement on Thursday evening, police said they are “aware of misinformation circulating on social media regarding advice to employers in Belfast city centre on Friday”.
“This has not been issued by the Police Service of Northern Ireland,” a spokesperson said.
