THE Justice Secretary has praised police in Glasgow for a “robust” operation around two republican parades and a counter protest on Saturday afternoon.
Humza Yousaf also wished a “full and speedy recovery” to an officer injured by a firework thrown during the incident.
About 1000 demonstrators and counter-protesters took to the streets, leading to the arrest of 10 people for a “variety of offences”, according to Police Scotland.
Yousaf said: “This is a further reminder of how Scotland’s police officers put themselves in harm’s way to keep all of us safe.”
While recognising the right to hold processions and demonstrations as “central to our democratic society”, he added: “It is important that we do not lose sight of the collective need for action to achieve a zero-tolerance approach towards sectarianism and offensive behaviour. Scotland’s communities also have a right to feel safe and to be protected from disorder and thuggery.”
He added that after a meeting with the city council and police last week, the Government is “open” to all options, including “allowing the council to reduce the number of marches”.
Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said he was “disgusted at the recklessness and stupidity” of the protesters throwing fireworks and flares after the police officer was taken to hospital for treatment.
He added: “We take the welfare of our officers very seriously and will be supporting him and his colleagues as he recovers, and will continue in our work to trace those responsible.”
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