A judge has described scenes of violence in Belfast as “absolutely disgraceful” as he refused bail to two men accused of taking part in disorder which followed an anti-immigration protest in the city on Saturday.
A number of men have been charged and are appearing at Belfast Magistrates’ Court today.
Bail was refused to a man described by police in court as playing a “significant role” in the protest.
Bernard Lavery (34) from Farnham Street in Belfast, appeared at Belfast Magistrates’ Court charged with taking part in an unnotified public procession.
A PSNI detective constable told the court that Lavery had been at the front of the protest on Saturday carrying a Irish tricolour flag and said that police believe he played a “significant role” in leading the march.
A defence lawyer said his client had been fully co-operative with police and denied having any leadership role in the protest. He said his client had only attended after a flyer was posted through his door.
Lavery was denied bail and was remanded in custody until September 2.
Bail was also refused to Simeon Eric McCullough (46) of Schomberg Drive in Belfast, who was charged with disorderly behaviour and resisting police.
Gary Creighton (38) from Inishowen Drive in Belfast, who was charged with possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence, possession of fireworks without a licence, and riotous behaviour was also refused bail. He also faced a charge of disorderly behaviour.
Deputy District Judge Liam McStay told the court: “The events at the weekend were absolutely disgraceful: a concerted and deliberate attempt to undermine public order and to then domineer the community and there were racist elements to it.”
He added: “This court cannot allow the type of behaviour that occurred on Saturday to be repeated and be visited on other people, and the message has to be if you allow yourself to become involved in these matters for whatever reason, then you will face the consequences.”