North Belfast Ulster Unionist spokesperson Andy Allen has urged the Police to ensure that the republican parade planned for Belfast this coming Sunday, complies fully with the Parades Commission’s determination.
Nr Allen said:
"A statement released on the Anti-Interment League’s Facebook page clearly states their intention not to abide by the Parades Commission’s determination which has been placed on the parade planned for Sunday 9th August.
“This parade already had the potential to cause great disruption in the City centre and the attitude adopted by the organisers raises genuine concerns that there will be confrontation between marchers and the Police.
“The parade has been told to be clear of the City Centre by 13:30. In defiance of this the organisers have said they will not be moving off from the Ardoyne area until 14:30.
“The Police have previously demonstrated that they are prepared to deploy resources to enforce Parades Commission decisions in North Belfast where loyal Order parades are affected. It is therefore vital that the Police take the necessary steps to ensure that this republican march complies with the Parades Commission’s determination and address any attempts to break the law.
“This is the last thing which Belfast needs. We are working hard to grow the tourist market and attract visitors from the Republic, Great Britain, Europe and further afield. The sight of republicans clashing with the Police will do nothing to help market Belfast as a destination.”