Paramilitary-linked Loyalist Communities Council says its members are not threatening violence over Drumcree
There are no threats of Drumcree-linked violence from the UDA, UVF, and Red Hand Commando it has been claimed.
David Campbell, chairman of the Loyalist Communities Council (LCC), which consults with paramilitary groups, issued a statement to that effect today.
It follows the decision of the NI Secretary to stand by the Parades Commissioners despite criticism of them by a High Court judge over their refusal to permit the Drumcree parade.
However, he has ordered a review of how the commission operates.
The statement from Mr Campbell said: “We fully endorse the [Portadown Orange] district’s legal strategy and wish to make it clear that there is no threat of violence or public disorder from any organisation affiliated to the LCC.
"We support the enforcement of Portadown district’s right of freedom of assembly and peaceful procession by solely lawful means.
"This commitment is unequivocal.
"We urge all loyalists to put their faith in the legal process.
"We also call on nationalism and republicanism in general and Sinn Fein in particular to match our position and refute any threat of violence or disorder from their side and to adhere peacefully to any legal rulings.”