Restrictions set on Whiterock parade
Restrictions have once again been imposed on the annual Whiterock Orange Order parade in west Belfast, the Parades Commission has confirmed.
The watchdog has ruled that only members of the host lodge will be allowed to march onto the predominantly nationalist Springfield Road on 25 June.
The remainder of the parade will go through the Old Mackie’s Factory site as in previous years.
The Commission rejected a request by the North and West Belfast Parades and Cultural Forum for a silver band to accompany the lodge on this year’s march.
In 2005 petrol and blast bombs were thrown at police during the parade.
While last year’s parade passed off peacefully, a small number of residents held a protest along the route of the march.
The Parades Commission said the North and West Belfast Parades and Cultural Forum and the Springfield Residents Action Group had been engaged in talks for several weeks.
In a statement it said: “While the talks have been positive it has not been possible to reach an understanding on the route of the parade.”
“The Commission commends the efforts of those involved in the discussion. We have been mindful of the serious and sustained public disorder occasioned by the circumstances surrounding the parade in 2005.”
“The decision represents an effort to address aspects of the parade which have caused distress among the nationalist community whilst enabling the legitimate expression of those on parade.”
