Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I have discussed the ongoing situation regarding the flag protests and the upcoming marching season with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Theresa Villiers, on a number of occasions, most recently in Dublin on 11 February last. I have also discussed these issues in ongoing contacts with the party leaders in Northern Ireland.

The particular problem posed by non-notified parades has been a matter of some comment recently. My understanding is that the interpretation of certain provisions of the Public Processions Northern Ireland Act 1998, under which the Parades Commission acts, is likely to arise in the context of an imminent judicial review. Accordingly, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage. However, while only a small number of applications related to the flag protests have been made to the Parades Commission, almost 200 people have been arrested in regard to these protests since they began on 3 December. I would like to record the Government’s support and appreciation for the efforts of the Police Service of Northern Ireland to protect the community there throughout weeks of public disorder. I would also like to record our absolute support for the role and mandate of the Parades Commission and for the commissioners and their staff who willingly take on work that, while critical for society in Northern Ireland, is often thankless.

Parades do not operate solely in a regulatory environment; they also operate in a political framework. Where that political framework is weak or inadequate, the Parades Commission and the Police Service of Northern Ireland are required bear an added burden of responsibility. We will continue, therefore, to take every opportunity to urge the party leaders and the Executive to address these issues urgently and in a manner that advances the lasting reconciliation which is at the heart of the Agreement and which must remain our shared objective.

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