Unionist anger over restrictions on band parade
UNIONISTS have hit out at a Parades Commission ruling placing restrictions on a contentious band parade in Rasharkin this week.
Ballymaconnelly Sons of Conquerors Flute Band is due to hold its annual parade in the Co Antrim village on Friday evening.
In its determination, the commission has ruled that up to 40 invited bands will not be permitted to return along the main street, but instead must march via the Moneyleck Road.
Republicans – who are due to hold a protest – have been ordered to disperse once the procession has passed.
Last year, the parades body reversed its initial decision to impose restrictions after organisers submitted a revised route.
However, the parade was re-routed due to a bomb scare. Republicans were later involved in violent clashes with police.
The Orange hall in the village has been subjected to numerous sectarian attacks.
TUV leader, Jim Allister, slammed the commission’s decision, claiming it was a “sop” to republican protesters.
“It is unnecessary and wrong that the traditional route up and back down the main street is being restricted,” the North Antrim MLA said.
“Instead of standing up to those who last year threw golf balls and organised a hoax bomb, the commission has rewarded them. No doubt, even that will not satisfy them as their mission is to keep the parade entirely out of the village.”
DUP councillor, John Finlay, insisted the ruling emphasised that the parades body should be abolished.
He said: “Once again the organisers and competitors involved in this parade, which is a highlight for many of the year, have been banned from walking their return route in their own village.”
The Parades Commission has urged both sides to engage in talks over the annual march.
“In the absence of direct dialogue, and taking account of the representations it has heard, the commission considers it appropriate on this occasion to place conditions on the parade,” it said.
At the weekend, Apprentice Boys were prevented from marching through the village’s Sunnyside estate following their return from Londonderry.
