Parades Commission authorises limited Orange Order walk on Garvaghy Road

The Parades Commission in Northern Ireland has granted permission for an Orange Order walk down the Garvaghy Road in Portadown, the first such march since 1997.

The decision follows an application by the Portadown District LOL 1 for 60 members to take part. The Commission has imposed conditions, limiting participants to 35, including five name‑marshals, and setting the start time at 8 am from Drumcree Church with dispersal by 9.30 am.

Under the terms, no banners, flags or emblems may be carried except the Portadown District lodge banner, no bands are allowed, and no supporters may congregate or accompany the parade.

Last month a High Court quashed a previous Commission decision relating to the march. Residents on the Garvaghy Road have warned they will “mobilise” and “come together” if the parade proceeds.

Sinn Féin First Minister Michelle O’Neill condemned the ruling, stating she “strongly condemn[s] the decision … to force an unwanted Orange march through the Garvaghy Road community” and urging protection of the 28‑year period of peace.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Matt Barnard / Pexels.