A Belfast High Court judge has temporarily blocked a planned Orange Order parade scheduled to pass through the nationalist Garvaghy Road in Portadown. The injunction, issued by Justice Smyth following a five-hour special hearing, suspends the march until a full judicial review can be conducted. The court’s decision comes amid significant public concern that the parade could trigger renewed sectarian violence in the region.

During the proceedings, Justice Smyth emphasized the need for all parties involved to exercise restraint, urging stakeholders to "step back from the abyss" for the benefit of Northern Ireland’s stability. The parade, which was originally slated for 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, remains legally prohibited until the court hears further arguments. The judicial review will ultimately determine whether the parade can proceed at a later date or if the current restrictions will be made permanent. While the court has prioritized public safety and the prevention of civil disorder, the ruling represents a significant legal setback for the organizers, who have historically maintained their right to march through the area.