We deplore the intervention of the Parades Commission, and
abhor its decision to curtail the route of the Bi-annual North
Belfast parade to be held on Friday 19th June 1998. The decision
has further strengthened our doubts about the impartiality
of the Commission.
Over the past number of weeks information has been received
from both sides of the community that a Republican element
within the North Belfast area has heightened tension and fears
among the local residents. This has resulted from the intention
to evacuate children and elderly residents on the day of the
parade.
Having had a meeting with the Lord Mayor, David Alderdice,
and representatives of concerned Protestant resident and community
groups, we appreciate their expressed fears and concerns -
therefore in the interest of peace and community feeling we
will abide by the law. It is however our intention to walk
the greatest distance of our route as is possible.
We would now appeal to the members of our Order and our genuine
supporters to parade with dignity and decorum. Please avoid
entering into conflict with members of the R.U.C. Remember,
the World media will be present and the parade will be the
focus of their attention, together with any incident that
occurs.
The Committee will continue to have dialogue with genuine
concerned groups who have no Sinn Fein involvement.
The rule of mob law has again succeeded with the threat of
imported Republican "rent-a-mobs" by the bus load,
coming into North Belfast.
Loyal citizens have been, as before, denied their lawful
right to walk the roads of this province.
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