Sinn Féin MLA Deirdre Hargey has called on unionist voices to reject attempts to force an Orange march down the Garvaghy Road, warning that efforts to undermine peace must be resisted.

Addressing the Assembly, the South Belfast MLA urged people within unionism to speak out and stand with residents, saying the situation should not be exploited for political ends. Hargey said: "Over recent days many from the unionist background have spoken out with a clear message that they do not support the reckless actions of the DUP and others who are attempting to drag us back and undermine the peace.

"I have a message for those within the unionist community who can see through the reckless politics of the DUP and political unionism:

"Be a voice of reason. Be a voice for common sense. And continue to be a voice that stands with the people of the Garvaghy Road in their right to live free from sectarianism and discrimination.

"We cannot allow reckless attempts by the DUP to exploit this horrific situation, to undermine our peace and drag us backwards to succeed.

"Every single one of us has a responsibility to face that down. We have come too far.

"There is no going back."