DUP MP Carla Lockhart finds herself at the center of a political storm after being filmed near masked individuals during a counter-protest in Scarva.
The political landscape in Northern Ireland has been stirred by recent events in Scarva, where DUP MP Carla Lockhart found herself at the center of controversy. The incident occurred during a counter-protest against the Great March for Gaza, which took place between Lurgan, Co Armagh, and Omeath, Co Louth.
Lockhart’s presence among a group of masked men who hurled abuse at the marchers has sparked a wave of criticism from various political figures.
The counter-protest in Scarva drew significant attention, with a heavy police presence aimed at maintaining order.
The Parades Commission had set conditions to keep the marchers from entering Scarva, and several bridges in the village were blocked off. The scene was tense, with water cannons, armoured Land Rovers, and TSG officers deployed to manage the situation.
The Incident and Political Reactions
social media footage captured Carla Lockhart walking back and forth among the counter-protesters, who were chanting and shouting at the Gaza marchers. The counter-protesters had gathered at a vantage point next to a housing estate, across the canal from where the protesters were walking. Lockhart was seen pointing at the demonstrators as they passed by on the other side of the Newry canal.
Her political opponents were quick to criticize her actions. Alliance Lagan Valley MP Sorcha Eastwood stated, “I certainly don’t please everyone all of the time and that’s not the aim. But we have an important role in working for all and showing good example. Standing in a crowd with people covering faces with masks or scarves whilst the crowd shout obscenities and abuse is not something we should be anywhere near, never mind in the middle of. We all have a role to play in providing positive leadership and this falls shockingly short of it.”
Responses from Political Figures
SDLP leader and MP Claire Hanna described the images from Scarva as “bleak and disturbing.” She highlighted the taunts at peaceful marchers and the presence of an MP surrounded by masked men in 2026. Hanna emphasized that political leaders who won’t condemn bullying and intimidation, wherever it comes from, won’t take society anywhere good. Her views were echoed by her SDLP counterpart, Stormont leader of the Opposition Matthew O’Toole, who described the scenes as “appalling behaviour.”
Sinn Féin South Down MLA Chris Hazzard posted on X, “South Down is a welcoming place defined by beautiful forests, mountains, and beaches – not masked intimidation. Next time you visit @carlalockhart you should look into what our constituency actually has to offer, rather than standing with masked men intimidating women & children.” Lockhart responded by saying, “In the absence of their own MP I had to step in and ensure calm heads prevailed.”
The DUP’s Stance and Future Implications
The DUP has been contacted for comment, but no official statement has been released as of yet. The incident has raised questions about the role of political leaders in maintaining peace and order during contentious events. The presence of masked individuals and the hurling of abuse have been condemned by various political figures, who emphasize the need for positive leadership and the condemnation of intimidation.
The controversy surrounding Carla Lockhart’s actions in Scarva highlights the delicate balance that political leaders must strike in addressing contentious issues. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of providing positive leadership and condemning intimidation and bullying, regardless of the political context.
