Huge Parade Marks Ulster Covenant Centenary

by liamssoft | September 29, 2012 at 01:51 pm

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One hundred years on from the signing of the Ulster Covenant, a parade to mark the landmark anniversary passes without incident.

A contentious Unionist parade went past a Catholic church in Belfast without incident, but residents have accused the marchers of breaking rules.

An estimated 30,000 marchers took part in the Orange Order march from the City Hall to the grounds of the Northern Ireland Assembly at Stormont in east Belfast.

A feeder parade of 2,000 Orangemen from north Belfast lodges were surrounded by a heavy police presence as they marched towards City Hall.

Unionists had agreed with the Parades Commission to play only hymns along Donegall Street - from the Carrick Hill junction to Royal Avenue - as they passed St Patrick's Church near the city centre.

The place of worship was the scene of disorder at points during the summer after a band was accused of playing sectarian music outside it on July 12.

Protesters and residents claimed the bands breached the rules set by the Parades Commission by playing the most famous Unionist anthem - The Sash - before reaching the end of the stretch.

Carrick Hill Residents Association chairman Frank Dempsey said they had flouted the rules

Father Michael Sheehan, administrator of St Patrick's, said while some of the bands beat their drums exuberantly, he believed they showed respect during the 20-minute march outside the church.

He insisted the talks with the Parades Commission had been fruitful, saying continued dialogue was needed to avoid future trouble.

"They marched with dignity down the road," added Father Sheehan.

"I think a degree of respect was shown that hasn't been shown before."

A police spokesman said any claims of breaches of the agreement with the commission would be investigated.

"Police have an extensive evidence-gathering operation in place and any breaches of the Parades Commission determination will be investigated and reported accordingly."

The six-mile march marked the 100th anniversary of the Ulster Covenant, to oppose Home Rule for Ireland in 1912.

Lodges including the Pride of Ardoyne and Pride of the Shore played Abide With Me and Onward Christian Soldiers, as spectators looked on.

Police were on high alert, with up to 50 police vehicles stationed along the flashpoint at St Patrick's.

Source:news.sky.com