UK, Ireland: Activists to demonstrate at five points along the UK, Irish border Nov. 20

Event

Border Communities Against Brexit (BCAB) plans to demonstrate at five locations on the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland Nov. 20. The purpose of the action is to oppose the UK government's threat to impose Article 16 of the Northern Ireland Protocol, which they argue could result in the imposition of border controls between Ireland and Northern Ireland. Counterprotests are possible by unionist groups who oppose the Northern Ireland Protocol and support the imposition of Article 16. The demonstrations will take place from 15:00 at the following locations:

• Carrickcarnan, Flurry Bridge

• Blacklion - Belcoo

• Aughnacloy, Moybridge

• Lifford Bridge

• Londonderry - Bridge End

Attendance will likely be in the low hundreds. Additional police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the demonstrations. The demonstrations themselves and related security measures could prompt transport disruptions in the surrounding area; traffic may be sporadically suspended on affected routes. The events are likely to proceed peacefully, though isolated clashes are possible should unionist groups attempt to stage counterprotests at the same locations. While bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence, they would face an indirect threat of physical harm.

Advice

Avoid the demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for traffic and public transport disruptions before beginning journeys and plan alternative routes if necessary; allow additional time for travel in affected areas.