A Sinn Féin delegation consisting of Liz Kimmins MLA, Dáire Hughes MP and Cllr. Aidan Mathers have met with the Parades Commission to convey residents’ concerns ahead of parades in Newry.
A large parade of the Royal Black Institution is planned for Newry on August 29th.
Speaking after the meeting, Liz Kimmins MLA said:
“We met the Parades Commission to present community concerns ahead of their determination on the upcoming Royal Black parade.
“We raised concerns in relation to access for residents, carers and emergency services to residential areas, the disruption in the city centre which will affect businesses, workers and shoppers, and the need for the organisers to ensure good behaviour and respect for the local community.
“It’s essential that the Parades Commission takes community concerns into consideration ahead of its determination.”
Dáire Hughes MP added;
“Recent parades in Newry have caused disruption and frustration in the community. One significant issue has been the erection of flags, and other paraphernalia, that are left flying long after the parade has come and gone.
“We pressed the Parades Commission on this issue. It’s vital that any flags put up for this parade are promptly taken down afterwards. The continued flying of flags, long after a parade has passed, frustrates and annoys the local community. This must be prevented moving forward.”
ENDS