A security alert disrupted crowds leaving the President’s Cup football match in Derry city on Friday night.
President Michael D Higgins was among those who attended the traditional League of Ireland season curtain raiser to see Derry City triumph over Shamrock Rovers at the Brandywell Stadium on Friday evening.
However, the discovery of a suspicious object in the Celtic Court area close to the stadium caused what SDLP leader and Foyle MP Colum Eastwood described as “significant disruption” for local residents and those travelling from the match.
“Elderly residents and children have had their night turned upside down as police attempt to make the area safe,” Mr Eastwood said.
Housing in Ireland is among the most expensive and most affordable in the EU. How does that happen?
Ceann comhairle election key task as 34th Dáil convenes for first time
Your EV questions answered: Am I better to drive my 13-year-old diesel until it dies than buy a new EV?
Workplace wrangles: Staying on the right side of your HR department, and more labrynthine aspects of employment law
“It is particularly frustrating that local people and Derry City fans are experiencing this disruption as President Higgins visits for this evening’s President’s Cup match.
“I would appeal to everyone in the area to follow the directions of local police. SDLP representatives will continue to liaise with emergency services as they seek to make the area safe as quickly as possible.”
A PSNI spokesperson said officers attended the scene of a security alert in the Celtic Court area of Derry following the discovery of a suspicious object.
They urged motorists and pedestrians to avoid the area. - PA