The Judge states clearly: “the Lodge’s right to process along the notified route has been established, subject to conditions deemed appropriate by the Commission. As a result of the events of the following weeks, significant concerns have now been expressed about respect for the rule of law in this jurisdiction. That includes amongst some elected representatives, by reason of their participation in the unnotified protest”.

Whilst no one will be surprised by Sinn Fein’s lawlessness, the SDLP must now be feeling very uncomfortable about the mob they allowed themselves to be caught up in.

It is noted the judgment has now revealed more intelligence information, which now makes clear PSNI has established (rather than suggesting a mere ‘possibility’) republicans HAD brought weapons to Garvaghy Road and DID INTEND to use them. This is part of the mob with whom Sinn Fein and SDLP stood arm in arm.

Importantly, Mr Justice Scoffield is damming in his criticism of the elected politicians who have sought to place themselves above the law. There is no one more caught by this scathing criticism than the self-proclaimed Michelle O’Neill.

The Judge pointedly said “whatever one’s standing or strength of conviction, the law does not apply only when you agree with it or with the outcome of a particular legal process”.

It is quite clear profound consequences can no longer be avoided with any credibility.

If matters were not already crystal clear, they are now beyond any reasonable contest: Michelle O’Neill must be removed from office.

The content of the criticisms in this judgment vindicate all those of us who have been clear that it is not sustainable to continue to keep Michelle O’Neill in office.

As recognised, the outcome of this process is that the legal right was prevented from being exercised by unlawful conduct. That cannot win, or be seen to win.

Therefore, as the Portadown District made clear; their legal right must be respected and given effect, and that means completing their parade and returning home.

Here we stand, we can do no other!