Orange Halls opening on November 27 to facilitate signing of anti-Protocol Declaration

In a statement the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland say that ‘the strength and depth of opposition to the Northern Ireland Protocol has regularly been downplayed and, in some quarters, it has been dismissed altogether’.

The statement adds: “In an effort to highlight the issue, the Orange Institution is facilitating the signing of an anti-Protocol Declaration which reiterates Unionism’s resolute opposition to the Protocol.

“The Declaration also offers clear support to the leaders of political Unionism, who issued their joint declaration against the Protocol on Ulster Day – 28th September 2021.

“Commenting ahead of the anti-Protocol Declaration signing day, Deputy Grand Master Wor. Bro. Harold Henning said: “The Unionist population is united and strongly opposed to the Northern Ireland Protocol, which sets Northern Ireland as a place apart from the rest of the United Kingdom. The Protocol clearly undermines the sovereignty of the United Kingdom as we are subject to laws made by Europe.

“Furthermore, it is delivering an all-Ireland economy as trade with the Republic of Ireland is growing, while trade with the rest of the United Kingdom is being frustrated and made increasingly difficult. As a result, traders and consumers are being forced to source goods from the Republic.”

Full details of halls and opening times can be found by visiting www.goli.org.uk/declaration. There is also an opportunity to sign the anti-Protocol Declaration on this page.

Mr Henning added: “We are encouraging anyone who cares about the Union, regardless of party affiliation, to sign this Declaration and register their peaceful opposition to the Northern Ireland Protocol.”