Fermanagh Royal Black parade rerouted away from weddings
A massive loyal order parade this Saturday has been rerouted by organisers so as not to impose on two couples who are getting married.
David Black told the News Letter that the route for the planned demonstration in Enniskillen, involving thousands of marchers, had been moved to take it away from St Michael’s Catholic church and St Martin’s Church of Ireland cathedral in the town.
Weddings will take place at both venues on the day.
Mr Black – 60-year-old Fermanagh-based chaplain of Enniskillen RBP36, which is hosting the parade – said: “As members of the Royal Black Institution, we do have a religious background and we do respect everyone.
“I’d like, on behalf of the Royal Black Institution here, to wish them God’s blessing and the day and a long and happy life together.
“I hope by changing the route of our parade, we’ve shown we mean that.”
The ‘Black Saturday’ parade will be “one of the biggest demonstrations in Fermanagh for some time”.
Mr Black estimated that 2,000 to 3,000 Royal Black members will march, plus up to 40 bands.
It begins at the Royal British Legion Car Park at 1pm, and the return route is due to finish by 5pm.