Parades review says 'dialogue is the way forward'

Following the publication of the findings of a review into controversial parades in the Province, entitled 'Parading in a Peaceful Northern Ireland', Commission Chairman Roger Poole described the outcome document as a “significant statement on the future direction for dealing with disputed processions.”

Due to a dramatic reduction in violence during this year's marching season, Mr Poole insisted that future disputes at flashpoint areas should be consolidated through face-to-face dialogue between residents` groups, Loyal Orders and political representatives.

Mr Poole said: "The post-parading season is an appropriate time to take stock, to review the past season and to plan our future work.

"The Forward View reflects the Commission's commitment to dialogue between local people as the only way to reach a lasting solution to the problems surrounding reviews."

He added that he believed that the recommendations arising from the review, would lead to a more open and clearer understanding of how the Parades Commission operates.

Mr Poole continued by saying that he realises that not everyone will agree with the all aspects of our recommendations but added that he hopes that they will recognise that they represent a fair balance of the diverse range of views submitted to us during the review.

Security Minister Paul Goggins today welcomed the Parades Commission’s report.

He said: “This report makes recommendations on how the Commission’s current procedures and guidelines can be improved.

“As set out in the St Andrews Agreement, we are currently consulting with political parties and others on terms of reference for a review which will examine all the issues around parading in Northern Ireland with a view to developing an agreed long term strategy.

“While this is going on, it is critical that we do not lose sight of the important job that the Parades Commission has to do.

“I commend the Commission, under Roger’s leadership, for the contribution that they have made to this year’s peaceful season and their commitment to making improvements as to how they do their business.”

(EF)