GARC Protest Called Off

A planned protest by the Greater Ardoyne Residents Collective (GARC) against an Orange March passing through Ardoyne on Friday has been called off, following a Parades Commission decision.

GARC announced the move following a meeting on Wednesday night.

The Parades Commission said the Orange Order could parade through the nationalist area in the morning, but not on the return route that evening.

In previous years, the march has resulted in stand offs between the two communities, often escalating into rioting and violence against police officers.

SDLP North Belfast MLA Alban Maginness called the move by GARC a positive step.

"This decision by the Parades Commission to stop the return leg of the parade on the evening of the Twelfth of July has created the space for GARC to cancel their planned protest which will hopefully further reduce tensions.

"This was a common sense decision and should be acknowledged as a positive contribution to creating a peaceful Twelfth in Ardoyne. I would reiterate my call that anyone in the community with influence does what they can to ensure that tensions are reduced."

The Crumlin and Ardoyne Residents' Association has called off a morning protest in the area.

Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly said: "I welcome the decision by CARA to call off their protest on the 12th morning, a decision they took as an act of good faith.

"I attended a public meeting tonight organised by CARA where they gave an update to the residents of Ardoyne on the talks with the Orange Order and had the support of the hall to reengage with the Orange Order as soon as possible after the 12th of July.

"CARA's position was well received by those who attended the meeting and the residents of Ardoyne are hopeful of a peaceful 12th of July."

(IT/CD)