Protesters block parade allowed for first time since 1998

Hundreds of protesters backing Irish unity blocked Garvaghy Road in Portadown on 27 September, stopping the Orange Order Drumcree march — by a pro-British group — approved by the Parades Commission, which rules on marches, for the first time since 1998. Marchers waited in Drumcree Church as police warned of arrests. Most left early 28 September before talks with officials.