Video - Thousands line streets for Belfast Easter Rising commemoration

THOUSANDS of people took part in the Easter Rising parade in Belfast on Sunday organised by the National Graves Association. Republican bands, colour parties, Sinn Féin representatives, republican former prisoners and youth activists all marched to the Republican Plot at Milltown Cemetery where former IRA prisoner and Sinn Féin MEP for the Six Counties Martina Anderson addressed the crowd.

Paying tribute the families of Ireland's patriot dead, Martina Anderson said the dedication and courage of those who have lost relatives and friends continues to inspire republicans across Ireland to drive forward the struggle for freedom and equality and to stand against injustice.

Speaking at the Republican Plot, Martina Anderson said:

"We will never, ever, forget our republican dead, nor will we forget what they gave to take this struggle to where it is today. Sinn Féin remains absolutely committed to the vision of 1916 and the implementation of the principles of the proclamation. To do this we must continue to build republican political strength across Ireland."