Party Leaders Call For Peaceful 12th

The leaders of Northern Ireland's five main political parties have called for a peaceful parading season ahead of Friday.

The statement was made following a meeting between the party leaders and PSNI Chief Constable Matt Baggott.

It said: "We welcome the briefing by the Chief Constable and note the steps that are being taken to police the events of the upcoming period and to keep people safe. We would like to acknowledge the significant efforts made around the contentious parades that have taken place already this year by community leaders and police. We would highlight, in particular, the recent talks between representatives of the Orange Order and Crumlin Ardoyne Residents’ Association and the efforts of both organisations over recent years to ensure peace."

The party leaders also condemned the use of violence and said it was neither acceptable in a democratic society, nor inevitable.

"Whatever any of the parties may believe about the wisdom of any Parade Commission determinations, it is the lawful authority dealing with these matters and its decisions must be observed. We appeal to community leaders and, indeed others, such as parents to seek a peaceful parading season to avoid an impact on our citizens, through damaged community relations or the life-restricting consequences of criminal records.

"We are committed to building a positive image of Northern Ireland seen as a result of the G8 Summit, through the UK City of Culture and, hopefully, the forthcoming World Police and Fire Games and All Ireland Fleadh. We do not want to see anything which undermines the good work already done by so many."

However, parties are already at loggerheads following a Parades Commission decision not to allow an Orange Parade through Ardoyne in north Belfast to return along the same route.

While Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly welcomed the decision, many key DUP MLAs have called for the removal of the Parades Commission.

Yesterday's all-party statement added: "For those who wish to see a different approach to decisions around parading we point you to the fact that the Executive has agreed to all-party talks commencing later this year. This will look at parading and other contentious issues. That is the forum through which we need to consider the future of parading decisions not through illegal protests or other unlawful action on the streets."

(IT/CD)