Since the publication of "The Agreement" we have
given it careful and detailed consideration. We had hoped
that it would offer such a real prospect of peace that we
could positively endorse it. Sadly that has not been the case.
Grand Lodge at its Meeting on 15 April decided that failing
clarification of certain vital issues we could not recommend
the Agreement.
Clarification was sought from a variety of sources including
a request for a Meeting with the Prime Minister.
Before meeting Mr. Blair we were aware that Her Majesty's
Government as one of the parties to a multi party agreement
could not unilaterally vary or amend it. We thought it right
however to meet the Prime Minister, to express our concerns
and listen carefully to his responses.
Having heard the Prime Minister's response we are confirmed
in our opinion that those matters in "The Agreement"
that we find objectionable are unalterable and we have communicated
this to our County Grand Masters for transmission to their
Members.
The Orange Institution is an organisation committed to Civil
and Religious Liberty and as such cannot instruct anyone how
to vote, and would urge everyone to read and study the Agreement.
However in light of the clarification received and for reasons
previously documented the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland is
unable to recommend the Agreement to the people of Ulster.
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