Civil rights movement 1968-69 - 03 January 1969

03 January 1969 - Third Day of People's Democracy March from Belfast to Derry

On the third day of the People's Democracy march from Belfast to Derry, the marchers continued to make their way through the county of Derry. They met with more opposition, but at Dungiven their numbers were swollen with local supporters. The police tried to divert them on to a direct route to Derry City rather than through the villages of Feeny and Claudy. However, through sheer numbers the march was able to proceed with minor mishap through Feeny and on to Claudy.

That same night, Ian Paisley and Major Ronald Bunting addressed their loyalist suppporters in the Derry Guildhall. Outside, a large crowd of Catholics grew hostile and were spoken to by a number of civil rights leaders, including Ivan Cooper and Eamonn McCann, who had come from the People's Democracy march. All speakers urged the crowd to disperse, emphasising the damage any attack on the loyalist gathering would have on the civil rights campaign. Despite the appeals, there was some stone-throwing and breaking of windows, and Bunting's car was set on fire.

Maghera damaged by loyalist mob

This film shows the damage done to a number of buildings in Maghera, Derry, after hours of rioting. The hotel that journalists were staying in also came under attack. The smashed car shown in the clip belonged to a reporter from the "Daily Mirror".

Paisley and Bunting speak to the media

Following a meeting with the Minister of Home Affairs Captain Long, Ian Paisley and Major Ronald Bunting talk to journalists about the People's Democracy march and their own plans. Paisley gives his reaction to the unfurling in Toome, Derry, of a republican club banner from Queen's University Belfast. This incident had caused debate among the student marchers, as there had been an agreement that there would be no flags or political emblems carried.

Violence at Guildhall

This clip shows violence taking place outside the Guildhall in Derry while Ian Paisley and Major Ronald Bunting address a meeting inside. Bunting's car is overturned and bursts into flames. Police use water cannons to disperse the crowd.