Civil rights movement 1968-69 - 04 December 1968

04 December 1968 - Demonstrations in Derry and intimidation in Tyrone

In Derry, hundreds gathered to cheer civil rights leaders as they left a special court to which participants in the 05 October 1968 march had been summoned. Among those appearing before the court were Gerry Fitt, Eddie McAteer and Austin Currie.

There were clashes at St Patrick's Hall in Dungannon, Tyrone, when civil rights supporters attending a meeting learned that cars outside were being damaged. Despite appeals, many attendees went outside to confront a unionist gathering. The RUC and civil rights stewards managed to keep the groups apart, but windows were broken and people hurt as sticks and stones were thrown by both sides.

During the disturbances, Jack Hassard, a Protestant and the sole Labour member of Dungannon Urban Council, was attacked by a unionist mob and threatened. Hassard subsequently announced that he was resigning due to death threats.

Protest against court hearings in Derry

Derry citizens march to protest at the hearings of cases against people summoned apropos of the civil rights march on 05 October 1968. Gerry Fitt leads a crowd who chant "Craig out" and "one man, one vote".

Councillor resigns following death threats

This clip shows the damage caused as a result of altercations following a disrupted civil rights meeting in Dungannon, Tyrone. Labour councillor Jack Hassard then gives the reasons for his resignation - death threats that have been made to himself and his family.

Threats at the Currie Home

Annita Currie, wife of Nationalist MP Austin Currie, describes the intimidation she has been subjected to at her home in Donaghmore, Tyrone.