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Edward Stevenson nuovo Grand Master di Orange Order

New Orange Order Grand Master elected

The Orange Order has elected senior official Edward Stevenson as its new Grand Master.

Robert Saulters, ex Grand Master
Robert Saulters, ex Grand Master
The 55-year-old farmer from Co Tyrone, formerly Deputy Grand Master of the institution, was appointed following a meeting in Co Londonderry on Wednesday morning.

He will take over from Robert Saulters, who announced his decision to step down from the position after 14 years last November.

Rev Alistair Smyth was elected as new Deputy Grand Master, while Drew Nelson was reappointed Grand Secretary, and Bill McKeown was elected Grand Treasurer.

Mr Stevenson, who has been a member of the organisation for 37 years and was Grand Master for his county, said he is “very honoured and very privileged” to take on his new role.

He has pledged to pursue a victims-centred approach, in which he hopes to fight for the rights and entitlements of victims of terrorism who he believes have been unfairly treated.

“There are many victims within our Orange family,” he told UTV. “We hope to promote their cause.”

When asked if the Orange Order will maintain its stance of not speaking to the Parades Commission under his leadership, Mr Stevenson said: “We will continue not to co-operate with the Parades Commission, and hope to establish a more fair and equitable framework for parading in the years ahead.”

First Minister Peter Robinson has congratulated the newly elected Mr Stevenson.

“I send my warmest congratulations and best wishes to Edward on his election,” the DUP leader said. “He has, over many years, shown faithfulness and devotion to the cause of Orangeism.”

Meanwhile Sinn Fein‘s Alex Maskey said he hopes the new leader can bring about a change in policy.

“The election of a new Grand Master provides an opportunity for the Orange Order to finally step forward and make their contribution to the peace process,” Mr Maskey said.

“In the coming days we will be writing to the new Grand Master Eddie Stevenson offering to meet with him and the rest of the Orange Order leadership.”

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René Querin

Di professione grafico e web designer, sono appassionato di trekking e innamorato dell'Irlanda e della sua storia. Insieme ad Andrea Varacalli ho creato e gestisco Les Enfants Terribles.

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