Ulster Unionist MLA Michael Copeland has commented on the application for a march in Belfast on 9th August by the ‘Anti-Internment League’.
The East Belfast MLA said;
‘Whilst I am genuinely and sincerely concerned that this is an attempt by some to stoke up further tension in the City, it is my view that if you live in a democracy and believe in freedom of speech then it is inevitable that you will hear things that you will not like. It also must follow that if you live in a democracy and believe in freedom of expression it is inevitable that you will see things that you may not like.’
‘Therefore, before challenging these freedoms when exercised by others we must be mindful of the danger which this presents to the democratic freedoms which we all should enjoy.’
‘I believe this intended march, which is to be attended by up to 5000 participants according to the application, must present republicans with questions regarding their own protests against parades which are reflective of the Unionist tradition.’