THE Apprentice Boys and the DUP have both expressed their disappointment after a nationalist residents’ group threatened to hold an “even bigger protest than originally planned” following a ruling that bands taking part in a Belfast Remembrance parade would be allowed to play hymns.
On Tuesday, the Parades Commission decided that the parade tomorrow morning would be restricted to playing only hymns while passing close by the nationalist Carrick Hill area and also when passing along Donegall Street.
No supporters are allowed to accompany the parade from the junction of Donegall Street with Royal Avenue and at the M1 junction.
The ruling is largely similar to previous rulings – including in regard to Reformation Sunday, which passed off peacefully – although bands have now been permitted to play hymns instead of simply a single drumbeat while passing close to Carrick Hill.
The commission paid tribute to the Apprentice Boys for initiating contact with nationalist residents, with two meetings involving both sides having taken place.
However, the Carrick Hill residents’ group has reacted angrily to the ruling – and threatened to have a bigger protest than they had originally planned. They have been permitted a protest of up to 150 people by the Parades Commission.
Residents’ spokesman Frank Dempsey has accused the commission of “buckling under pressure” and also claimed the ruling could “jeopardise” talks between the Apprentice Boys and nationalist residents.
Apprentice Boys spokesman Billy Moore told the News Letter that they feel disappointed by the position which the residents have taken.
“How can hymns offend anyone?” he asked.
“We are disappointed that after dialogue taking place, and the Apprentice Boys going in there to find resolution, that the residents’ group would still be opposed to the playing of hymns.
“This parade has been in place for a number of years and there has never been any difficulty. I’d also like to emphasise that this is a Remembrance parade, there is no celebration.”
North Belfast DUP MLA William Humphrey described the position of the Carrick Hill Concerned Residents’ Committee as “deeply disappointing and unhelpful”.
“Given the events of this summer, all concerned should be actively working to de-escalate the situation – not seeking to up the ante,” he added.
A spokesman for the Parades Commission said in response: “The commission consistently advocates that dialogue between parade organisers and local residents is key in resolving contentious issues surrounding parades.
“In reaching its determination the commission noted the Apprentice Boys of Derry Belfast has met twice in recent weeks with the Carrick Hill Concerned Residents’ Committee and has committed to further engagement.
“The commission recognises the legitimate concerns of the residents and parishioners of St Patrick’s and Carrick Hill, but were similarly conscious that the Apprentice Boys of Derry Belfast adhered to the previous determination at this location and in presenting to the commission the organisers offered assurances of appropriate behaviour in this sensitive location.”
Meanwhile, the Orange Order will hold its annual Service of Remembrance in the memorial garden at Schomberg House, Belfast, on Saturday from around 10.45am. A wreath will be laid for members of the Institution who lost their lives during the Troubles, as well as Cookstown prison officer David Black, who was murdered last week as he drove along the M1 on his way to work at Maghaberry Prison.
Those who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars will also be remembered.