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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Peter Davidson

Council chief could 'push the law' on marches after sectarian violence in Govan

The leader of Glasgow City Council has said she may have to push the law in order to protect the public following sectarian disorder.

Streets in Govan descended into chaos on Friday night as Loyalist and Republican groups clashed before an Irish Unity march.

Riot cops were drafted in an attempt to calm tempers as violence erupted.

There are three more marches planned this week, however Susan Aitken has said legislation could be tested to strengthen her hand.

Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken (Daily Record)

She said the local authority has attempted over the last year has "pushed the law" to the extent of it being taken to court.

In an interview she told Good Morning Scotland: "I am absolutely clear that the council's procedures are not in any way at fault here. The council made the decision that the council has the ability to make.

"Over the past year, Glasgow City Council has pushed the law as far as we can on this, to the extent of being taken to court. And it may well be that we have to do this again.

"Human rights law trumps domestic law. People absolutely have a human right to march and to process and we have a duty to facilitate that.

"We're at the point now, though, where that right is being abused.

"Therefore we have to consider as a public authority, alongside the other public authorities who have a role in this, whether we push the law in order to protect the public."

Video: Riot police dealing with 'significant disorder' sparked by march protests in Glasgow

Following the unrest on Friday two men were arrested and charged.

The occurred during a pre-organised event by the James Connolly Republic Flute Band who were taking part in a march.

That prompted a counter protest by Loyalists – many dressed all in black with balaclavas on.

Riot cops eventually managed to contain both sides after calling in for extra resources.

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