Northern Ireland

Dissident republican Easter march called off after fatal shooting of journalist Lyra McKee in Derry

Lyra McKee was killed during rioting in the Creggan in Derry last night
Lyra McKee was killed during rioting in the Creggan in Derry last night Lyra McKee was killed during rioting in the Creggan in Derry last night

A dissident republican group in Derry has called off its march on Monday to commemorate the Easter Rising following the fatal shooting of journalist Lyra McKee.

The group had planned an unauthorised march in the Creggan.

It said the parade had been called off "as a mark of respect".

"The Derry 1916 Commemoration Committee have opted to cancel this Easter Monday’s annual Easter Commemoration as a mark of respect for the tragic and accidental killing of Lyra McKee," it said.

"Our sympathy extends to the family, friends and loved ones of this innocent woman."

Vigils are taking place today in Derry, Belfast and Derry in memory of the 29-year-old freelance journalist who was shot dead last night in Creggan during rioting.

A fundraising page has also been set up in her memory. Police believe dissident republicans were behing the "callous" killing.

Leaders of the main political parties have issued a joint statement of condemnation.

Read more: 

  • Journalist Lyra McKee (29) shot dead during Derry rioting
  • 'How dare they' - priest who anointed Lyra McKee hits out at killers
  • Dissident republican group claims journalist Lyra McKee was shot dead 'accidentally'
 Journalist Lyra McKee was shot dead in Derry
 Journalist Lyra McKee was shot dead in Derry  Journalist Lyra McKee was shot dead in Derry