Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows calls for 'calm heads and measured words' after Drumcree parade decision
Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows has called for “calm heads and measured words” ahead of Sunday morning’s restricted Orange Order parade along the Garvaghy Road.
The Parades Commission has approved the first Orange Order return parade along the Garvaghy Road in almost three decades, but imposed a number of restrictions on the procession.
The parade, due to take place on Sunday morning, will be limited to 35 participants, compared with the 60 members requested by Portadown District. It must begin at 8am and disperse from Carleton Street Orange Hall by 9.30am.
No bands or supporters will be permitted to take part or gather along the route, while only the Portadown District banner can be carried or displayed during the section along the Garvaghy Road.
The proposed return parade has been strongly opposed by residents in the mainly nationalist Garvaghy Road area.
However, Mr Burrows said those taking part must now abide by the conditions, while urging all sides to respond peacefully and continue efforts to resolve the long-running dispute.
“The conditions are substantial, and the responsibility for meeting them rests with the organisers,” he added.
"Portadown District has complied with determinations for many years, and I have every confidence it will conduct itself lawfully and with dignity on Sunday morning.
“I said before the decision, and I repeat now: whatever the outcome, everyone in every community must respond peacefully and lawfully. The Police Service of Northern Ireland has a difficult job to do, and we should all give its officers the support they need to uphold the law and keep the peace. We need calm heads and measured words. Everything said and done between now and Sunday should help ensure the morning passes without disorder.
“This determination does not settle the Drumcree dispute. A lasting resolution will come through dialogue and mutual respect, and I encourage all parties to engage with the mediation process. Northern Ireland's progress has been hard won. We all have a responsibility to protect it.”
Mr Burrows said the Parades Commission had taken a different approach to previous determinations.
“This is a significant determination,” he added.
"The Parades Commission has permitted a restricted parade along the Garvaghy Road. For too long, its approach to Drumcree appeared to be a foregone conclusion, with previous determinations effectively repeated rather than each new application assessed afresh. This time, the Commission has examined the application on its own merits. That is the approach every application deserves, and its decision should be respected.”