Irish Catholics and Protestants set aside historical differences to protest mass immigration in Belfast

The text claims that Irish Catholics and Protestants set aside historical differences to protest mass immigration in Belfast. Recent reports confirm that there have been anti-immigration protests in Belfast involving both communities. According to UnHerd, the protests were heavily dominated by Ulster Protestants but included attempts to engage local Catholics. The protests were part of a broader wave of anti-immigration demonstrations across the UK, sparked by events in England. Protestors from the Republic of Ireland, carrying Irish tricolours, were notably aggressive, indicating a significant cross-border element. The protests also saw confrontations with pro-migration activists, highlighting the complex and volatile nature of the situation. This context supports the claim that both Irish Catholics and Protestants participated in the protests, setting aside historical differences to unite against mass immigration. However, it is essential to note that the involvement of far-right elements and the use of national symbols by protestors from the Republic complicate the narrative, suggesting that the unity may be more about shared opposition to immigration than a genuine reconciliation of historical enmities. Additionally, the Belfast Telegraph reported that far-right activists from the Republic were hosted by a loyalist with a violent past, further complicating the narrative of unity.