The Parades Commission has ruled that a Palestine solidarity march and counter-protests can proceed this Saturday near Scarva, a village in County Down with 474 residents. The decisions follow disorder at last year’s event.

The Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC) march will start in Lurgan at 8.30am and travel to Omeath via the Newry Canal Towpath, passing the outskirts of Scarva but not entering the village. An estimated 1,500 people are expected. A protest by Scarva Concerned Residents, numbering around 100, has also been approved, along with a later sponsored walk by the Markethill Volunteer Flute Band. The band’s parade is set for 2.30pm to keep it separate from earlier activities.

During last year’s march, police sealed off Scarva for three hours. Men carrying flags ran down the main street, pursued by riot officers, and four arrests were made.

DUP MP Carla Lockhart and MLAs Diane Dodds, Jonathan Buckley and Diane Forsythe said residents were deeply concerned and frustrated by the approval, arguing that an overtly political demonstration had been imposed despite local opposition. Lockhart also criticised a video appeal by rap group Kneecap, in which member DJ Próvaí called on people to join the march. She said the group’s involvement would stir tensions and highlighted the Parades Commission’s decision as unwise.

IPSC Newry joint-chair Marc Mac Seáin rejected attempts to portray the event as sectarian, stating that all backgrounds were welcome in solidarity against genocide. He urged counter-protesters to reflect on what they were opposing.

Alliance MLA Andrew McMurray said the day could pass peacefully if all sides observed the commission’s determination, calling for cool heads and responsible leadership. Police said an appropriate and proportionate operation would be in place.