JAMES McClean’s footballer brother is under investigation at his club after being spotted at a New IRA parade in Derry on Easter Monday.
Glentoran Football Club confirmed that it is “aware of footage involving one of our payers currently circulating online” and said the club is “reviewing internally” the widely-circulated clip.
Glentoran FC defender James McCleanDavid Maginnis/Pacemaker Press
Footage of Patrick McClean at the parade in Derry over the weekend has been circulating onlineSocial Media
The video of defender Patrick ‘Paddy’ McClean seemingly shows him walking in the same direction as a masked colour party made its way from Creggan to Free Derry Corner in the Bogside.
During the parade, the PSNI made two arrests and seized items including a van, after officers were attacked with petrol bombs.
However, there is no suggestion Paddy McClean was involved in any of the disorder, or was spoken to by police.
In a statement, a spokesperson for The Glens said: “Glentoran Football Club is aware of footage involving one of our players currently circulating online.
“The club is fully committed to maintaining a respectful, inclusive and welcoming environment for all players, staff, supporters and the wider community.
“The matter is being reviewed internally in line with club policies and no further comment will be made at this time.”
It is understood that around 150 people attended the gathering.
Some of those taking part are understood to have been wearing masks and paramilitary-style clothing – despite a ban in place following a Parades Commission determination.
Senior officers have condemned the actions of those who caused trouble during the annual parade, which marks the 1916 Easter Rising.
PSNI Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney, said that despite parade organisers’ claims that they wanted to hold a dignified commemoration, “what we saw was the complete opposite”.
She said: “From the commencement of the parade to when it dispersed, we saw masked individuals, which we believe at this time to be a breach of the Parades Commission determination.
“As these masked individuals made their way towards the dispersal point on Lecky Road, disorder developed in the area of Nailors Row from around 2.50pm.
‘UTTERLY SHAMEFUL’
“Petrol bombs, fireworks and masonry were thrown which resulted in nearby Bishop Street being closed for a time for public safety reasons.
“Members of the public were diverted away from that area in the City Walls.
“This disorder involving young people was orchestrated.
“We have no doubt about this.”
The senior police officer continued: “Young people were shamelessly and deliberately used in an attempt to distract from and shield the masked individuals as they took cover in a gazebo following the parade in the area of St Joseph’s Place to change out of their parade clothing.
“This is child criminal exploitation. It is utterly shameful.”
Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
