Michelle O’Neill accused of ‘breaking the law’ over support for protests blocking Drumcree parade
From the Newshound archive · first published 28 September 2026 · last updated 29 September 2026.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly accused First Minister Michelle O'Neill of following "the law of the mob and not the law of the land" after O'Neill joined thousands of nationalist protesters blocking an Orange Order parade on the Garvaghy Road in Portadown. DUP leader Gavin Robinson is exploring censure motions against Sinn Féin ministers and a referral to Stormont's standards commissioner, stopping short of collapsing the executive. Taoiseach Micheál Martin called the dispute "very, very concerning" and urged all parties to "dial back" and seek mediation.
O'Neill declared victory just before 1am Monday after receiving 'assurances' the parade would not proceed overnight.
The Orange Order had been granted permission by the Parades Commission to march Garvaghy Road for the first time in nearly 30 years — but was blocked on every attempt by police and protesters.
O'Neill can only be removed as First Minister if Little-Pengelly resigns her own post, as neither can hold office without the other.