A controversial Orange Order parade passed off peacefully in Belfast today, but a senior official called for talks to end the deadlock over future marches.
Parades Commission chairman Roger Poole made his appeal after the Orange Order’s Whiterock parade took place without major incident today.
The march was the scene of serious violence in the past and the commission placed restrictions on a section of its route crossing a sectarian interface in west Belfast.
The Order hit out at the commission for allowing only 50 marchers to cross the so-called peace line on to the Springfield Road.
Today Mr Poole said the government-sponsored Parades Commission, which rules on controversial marches, welcomed the fact that the parade had not sparked violence.
“It is vital that when there is disagreement on parades that all sides adhere to decisions of the commission. The commission also acknowledges the positive approach adopted by those involved in managing today’s event,” he said.
“Both sides in this dispute have indicated their willingness to re-engage in meaningful dialogue this September. The commission views this is as the renewal of a genuine effort to find a long term sustainable solution to the issue of parading on the Springfield Road. We will continue to encourage and facilitate that dialogue.”
An estimated 150 nationalist protesters demonstrated against the parade, which was criticised in the past when a band carried loyalist paramilitary regalia.
PA