Grand Orange Lodge calls for accountability following Portadown parade blockade

The Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland is committed to the rule of law prevailing in our land. That premise assumes that no one, regardless of their position, should be considered above the law. 

The Brethren of Portadown have chosen to pursue a legal and principled approach challenging the Parades Commission's long-standing refusal to allow the completion of their traditional route. 

The legal outcome, after challenges and appeals, remains that there is no lawful reason to stop the parade proceeding. 

Disappointingly, nationalism and republicanism, including many individuals who hold key political offices, decided that the law is only to be adhered to and enforced when it is supporting their views. 

There are now major political questions to be asked about the illegal actions and subsequent repercussions of a number of elected representives. There is no shortage of evidence of illegality, and we therefore anticipate a swift response which holds lawbreakers to account for their actions. 

Whilst we acknowledge the difficult situation faced by Police; their duty is to uphold the law. If the safety of our 35 Brethren cannot be guaranteed, then PSNI need to make that clear and admit that they are unable to police the potential actions of those taking part in the illegal protest. Such a failure has echoes of the high-profile paramilitary funeral during covid and will do little to dispel the view that there are different policing approaches and decisions. 

It has been encouraging to see political Unionism speak collaboratively on this matter and we trust that they will now bring collective scrutiny of the actions of others. 

The events of the last 36 hours have shown that despite the warm overtures and talk of a shared future, many within political nationalism still cannot, and will not tolerate Orange and Unionist rights as a legitimate part of the cultural fabric of our shared and complex history. 

GOLI Officers remain in regular communication with Portadown District and local elected representatives and will continue to offer support as required.