Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill to Cooperate with Police Over Drumcree Protest

First Minister Michelle O'Neill has confirmed that she has received a letter from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) as part of an investigation into protests surrounding the Drumcree parading dispute. The police had previously announced they were issuing letters to individuals believed to be reasonably suspected of committing offenses linked to the protests.

O'Neill stated that she will cooperate with the investigation. "I can confirm I have received a letter inviting me for a police interview in relation to a peaceful protest on the Garvaghy Road. I will co-operate with the investigation," she said in a statement released by Sinn Féin.

She reiterated her stance in solidarity with residents of the Garvaghy Road, stating, "For the last two weeks, I have stood in solidarity with the Garvaghy Road residents as attempts were made to force an unwanted Orange march through their community." She added, "I will continue to stand with the Garvaghy Road residents who should be allowed to live in peace and free from sectarian intimidation. Because it is always right to stand up for what is right. And there can be no going back."

The PSNI's investigation into the protests, which occurred at the end of last month, has drawn calls from unionist politicians for action against senior Sinn Féin figures, including O'Neill, who participated in the demonstrations against an Orange Order march down the Garvaghy Road. The police statement on Thursday did not name any specific individuals targeted for interview.

Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald previously indicated that the party would cooperate fully with any police inquiries, while maintaining their position of support for the Garvaghy Road residents. Sinn Féin MLA Deirdre Hargey also confirmed receiving a letter and indicated she would seek legal advice.