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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Orlaith Clinton

PSNI statement after Shankill Road Rangers street party

The PSNI says investigations are underway after large crowds gathered on a Belfast street on Sunday night despite coronavirus restrictions.

Footage shows hundreds of men, women and children gathered on the Shankill Road for a street party style celebration for Rangers Football Club's Scottish Premiership win.

Superintendent Nigel Henry said the numbers in attendance were "clearly a breach of the Health Protection ( Coronavirus ) Regulations".

Superintendent Henry's statement added: "Police received reports last night about large numbers of people celebrating in the Shankill Road area of North Belfast.

"This included reports of a street party and flares being set off on the Shankill Road. Police also became aware of fireworks being let off in the Shankill Road area and in the Ballysillan Road area.

"The numbers involved in the scenes last night were clearly a breach of the Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations, which is so disappointing when we know so many other people are adhering to the Regulations and playing their part to keep people safe.

"An investigation is under way, and appropriate enforcement action will be taken in relation to breaches of the Regulations."

Last night, DUP MP Gregory Campbell said the victory did not justify rule breaking.

"No one is more delighted than myself to see this success for the Gers," he added.

"It’s been a long road. But so has the battle against Covid.

“I understand the desire for celebrations but that doesn’t justify breaking the public health rules.

“It would be a bad day for Northern Ireland Rangers fans if a hallmark of 55 league titles was to be fans in ICU beds rather than being able to cheer their team on to more success.

"There will be plenty of time to celebrate in due course when the vaccine has been rolled out.”

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