The Orange Order is horrified by last night's tragic events
and has already unequivocally condemned it. We offer our sincere
sympathy and deepest condolences to the Quinn family. What
has happened in a number of incidents this past week is wholly
contrary to the principles which we hold dear.
It is clear that there are those who are not prepared to
let us have the kind of peaceful protest which is intended.
In these circumstances the beleaguered Brethren of Portadown
District are agreed to establish a continued presence at Drumcree.
The Grand Lodge will support such a peaceful and dignified
initiative.
Our country should be encouraged toward a reflective mode.
Giving expression to understand each others legitimate rights
and the sensitivities involved. Society as a whole must renounce
any association with violence and reject therefore any political
agenda founded on the premise of terrorism.
Talks at the highest level must be promptly facilitated to
address the wider ramifications of distress caused to Orange
Brethren at many venues including that at Drumcree. The Grand
Lodge will make available its representatives to assist in
the cockpit of discussions with regard to influencing a lasting
recognition of its members civil rights and liberties.
We implore the government to restore our confidence in their
understanding of our pain and sensitivities regarding meetings
with those who engage in cultural apartheid, by acknowledging
the responsible role we can play in creating a climate conducive
to attaining a peaceful and lasting solution. We believe that,
if talks to resolve current difficulties are to succeed, they
should be on a much broader basis than Saturday's talks. We
are willing to put proposals to the Government to achieve
this.
Looking ahead, if Northern Ireland is to become the place
we know it can be, all the ordinary folk need to find a way
to trust each others identity. The Orange Order commits itself
unreservedly to playing its part in creating a future in which
we can all celebrate our diversity and in which the acute
divisions which destroy our society become a thing of the
past. We will be looking for a positive response from Government
and from all in civil society who want to see a fair, balanced
and stable future for Northern Ireland.
The focus should now be on tomorrow's celebrations, which
we are determined will take place in a dignified fashion and
which, mindful of the recent tragedy will fully recognise
local sensitivities. Taking immediate effect peaceful protests
will be scaled down.
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