Non Gamstop CasinoNon Gamstop CasinoNon Gamstop CasinoNon Gamstop CasinosNon Gamstop CasinosNon Gamstop Casinos
Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland
  Press Statements

Orange Order criticises police protection for North Belfast parade

22 June 2002

The Orange Order today requested urgent talks with the Police Service of Northern Ireland to discuss the attack on Orangemen at last night’s parade in North Belfast.

Nationalists from the New Lodge area threw bricks, bottle and metal bolts at the parade as it passed the peace line in Duncairn Gardens.

Describing the level of police protection for the parade last night as “woefully inadequate”, Dawson Bailie, County Grand Master of Belfast, said: “There was trouble at this same point two years ago – something we drew to the attention of the police then. The police should have known this was a potential trouble spot and their failure to protect those on parade last night simply isn’t good enough. We will be asking the PSNI to explain what went wrong and seeking assurances on proper police protection for future parades.”

After the Orange parade was ambushed eight nearby Catholic homes were attacked resulting in a pensioner being taken to hospital. “We condemn unreservedly any violence towards Catholic residents”, said Robert Saulters, Grand Master of the Orange Order. “This kind of mindless hooliganism serves no purpose whatever. We are confident that no Orangeman took part in the attacks but we shall be carrying out an internal investigation to make sure – and if any Orangeman is implicated they will face disciplinary action”

Mr Saulters added: “The parade was perfectly lawful and closely marshalled. All Orangemen ask for is a few minutes of tolerance and respect so we can celebrate our Ulster-Scots culture and traditions free of interference and violence from outsiders. If others are so insecure about their own identity that they feel they have to attack us then at the very least we expect the police to offer proper protection.”

Back to Back ~ Recent ~ Press Home
Ref: 020622-tour-of-the-north

The Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland
Schomberg House, 368 Cregagh Road, Belfast, BT6 9YE
T: +44 (0) 28 9070 1122 ~ F: +44 (0)28 9040 3700
Buy Online - the best way to buy

© Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland 2002-2006

Site Map

Web Design by www.truska.com