The Five Demands

Removal of Union flags blamed for loyalist riot (Belfast Telegraph)
The removal of Union flags has been blamed for the outbreak of loyalist mob violence in Portadown on Friday night, the local MP has said.
The 100-strong crowd attacked police with petrol bombs, fireworks and bricks in an attempt to get to nationalist homes.
PSNI officers fired 19 baton rounds during the confrontation which took place at a flashpoint in the Obins Street area of the town.
A number of Land Rovers sustained substantial damage during the disorder, but no serious injuries were reported.
The DUP’s Upper Bann MP, David Simpson, condemned the violence, but said it was provoked by the removal of Union flags from unionist homes.
He said: “The initial rioting was provoked by nationalists firing missiles and removing Union flags from mainly unionist areas.
“However, the violence on Friday evening will not stop such unprovoked attacks from nationalists. The rioting only serves to disrupt and deface the locality.
“I know many elderly people living in the area were living in fear last night and did not endorse this violence. Such scenes must be condemned.
“The removal of Union flags and the directing of fireworks at Protestant homes must stop.”
Superintendent Jason Murphy said that police became aware that loyalists were intending to stage a peaceful protest at 4pm.
He confirmed that police attended the scene at 5pm following requests from both communities.
Superintendent Murphy continued: “We are aware of tensions concerning flags in the area prior to the disorder.
“It would appear that the disorder was caused predominantly by young people who were absolutely intent on attacking those officers who were protecting both sides of the community.”
He added: “The peaceful protest that had been assured by the loyalist community took place, but it was clear that there were faceless individuals within the crowd who were intent on violence.”
SDLP Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly condemned the violence as an attack on nationalist residents. She added: “The use of sledgehammers indicates at least a degree of organisation.
“Somebody seems to have made a decision that a protest on the Corcrain Road should turn into an attack on Obin Street.”
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Police made three arrests following loyalist violence in Portadown on Friday night. A 24-year-old man charged with riotous behaviour and criminal damage will appear at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court today.
A 42-year-old man, charged with riotous behaviour, criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon, is to appear on August 12.
A 20-year-old man, charged with disorderly behaviour, resisting police and assault on police, will also appear on August 12.