Pro-indy marchers could be told to re-route to avoid ‘disruption’
THE organisers of a proScottish independence march in Glasgow could be ordered to change the end point of their procession to prevent “substantial city centre disruption”.
Councillors will meet on Thursday to decide whether to impose the condition on the Scottish Independence Movement’s march, planned for Saturday, November 2.
The group has yet to agree to Glasgow City Council’s alternative finishing point, which would see marchers disperse into Shuttle Street rather than George Square. A separate event has already been booked for George Square on the same day.
The pro-independence group has offered to finish in John Street but the council believes this could cause significant disruption. Police Scotland has raised concerns over policing a parade with an “unclear” plan.
“Given the uncertainty in the number of participants taking part in the procession, the dispersal point suggested by the organiser could lead to substantial city centre disruption,” a council report states.
“It is therefore suggested the dispersal point be Shuttle Street to minimise the disruption and detrimental impact the procession could have on the city centre.”
The Scottish Independence Movement was recently launched by former members of All Under One Banner (AUOB), including Manny Singh.
He was reported to the procurator fiscal for failing to comply with conditions imposed on an AUOB procession in Glasgow in May.
Mr Singh was sacked by AUOB in July, a decision he disputed.
A report to the public processions committee reveals council officers have raised “serious concerns” over the organiser’s “disregard of any health and safety legislation” and “environmental health controls” during the previous march.
The authority was notified about the new organisation’s intention to march last month. At a meeting, the organiser refused to agree to change the start time for the November 2 procession from 1pm to 11.30am. However, he has since wrote to the council to confirm an 11.30 start.
Organisers had originally expected 3,000 marchers but are now planning for between 500 and 1,000. They said they would liaise with Police Scotland if participant numbers increase.