A flute band from Markethill, County Armagh, has announced it will take part in a counter-protest in Scarva on Saturday morning, after the Parades Commission delayed the start of its own sponsored walk until the afternoon.

The Markethill Volunteers Flute Band had applied to walk the Canal Towpath between Scarva and Portadown on Saturday morning. The Parades Commission considered this alongside two other applications linked to Scarva: a pro-Palestine march and a counter-protest.

The Commission, which described the applications as sensitive, issued its determinations on Friday afternoon. It directed the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign's 'Great March for Gaza & International Justice 2026' to remain on the towpath and not enter Scarva village. No one is permitted to join the march at Scarva, and while passing the village, participants must not display flags or emblems, or engage in chanting or singing. The march, with an estimated 1,500 participants, is due to leave Lurgan and walk towards Newry.

Scarva Concerned Residents had sought permission for a counter-protest, with around 100 people expected. The Commission approved it with conditions requiring participants to behave with due regard for others, avoid sectarian or provocative behaviour, and follow police and steward directions. Alcohol consumption is prohibited.

The Markethill Volunteers' walk was approved but must now start at 2.30pm, with no undue delays. The band criticised the decision, describing it as Republican appeasement, and said members would instead support the counter-protest at 10am. In a social media post, the band stated it would conduct its charity fundraiser for veterans while attending the counter-protest and encouraged the Protestant, Unionist and Loyalist community to attend in large numbers.