Derry Easter Parade Trial Commences for Four Charged with Supporting IRA
The trial has commenced for four men accused of charges related to a controversial Easter parade in Derry, which took place over two years ago. The defendants, Thomas Ashe Mellon (49), Jason Lee Ceulemans (53), Patrick Anthony Gallagher (33), and Stephen Martin Murney (41), have all denied supporting the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in relation to the unnotified parade on April 10, 2023.
Derry Easter Parade Charges Overview
The charges against the four men include organizing and managing a meeting supporting the IRA between February 28 and April 11, 2023. They also face accusations of addressing a gathering to encourage support for the organization.
Details of the Unnotified Parade
The prosecution presented evidence that the unnotified parade commenced in Derry’s Creggan estate, proceeding to the City Cemetery. A police surveillance operation monitored the event from aerial platforms. Video footage captured Mr. Ceulemans entering a storage container before the parade began, where he allegedly retrieved flags for the march. Witnesses noted his involvement in organizing the event.
- The parade began in Creggan and was monitored by police.
- Masked individuals participated, and disorder erupted involving petrol bombs.
- Mr. Ceulemans allegedly led the color party while Mr. Gallagher engaged with the crowd.
Conduct and Activities During the Parade
During the event, a PSNI land rover faced attacks from masked youths. The prosecution argued that the violence was part of a planned response orchestrated by the organizers. As the color party entered the cemetery, they were captured on video with Mr. Gallagher acting as the “master of ceremonies,” introducing notable figures and reading statements associated with the IRA.
Subsequent Arrests and Evidence
A police search conducted on April 11, 2023, at the cemetery revealed four viable pipe bombs hidden in a waste bin. Following the parade, all four defendants were arrested. Investigative efforts also linked Mr. Murney’s phone to communications with Mr. Mellon regarding the speeches delivered during the event.
Testimonies and Legal Implications
The prosecution asserts that Mr. Mellon played a key role in organizing the parade, despite not attending on April 10. Evidence suggests he influenced the preparation and content of the speeches aimed at promoting IRA support. The proceedings have highlighted the event’s choreographed nature, raising concerns over its implications for public safety and security.
The trial continues, with the court examining the involvement of all four men in what has been characterized as a planned propaganda exercise for the IRA. This trial not only addresses the specific charges but also reflects ongoing tensions surrounding republican activities in Northern Ireland.
