Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations he has received from the Republic of Ireland about traditional Orange Marches during July; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Tom King[pursuant to his reply, 14 July 1986, c. 367]: Decisions on the routes of individual marches are the responsibility of the Chief Constable. After he had made public his decision in respect of the march at Portadown on 12 July to allow a limited number of Orange lodges, subject to strict conditions, to parade along Garvaghy road but not Obins street, the Irish Government communicated their strong views on that decision. They have made no representations about other particular routes for Orange parades, but they have conveyed to me very clearly their views on the general issues of marches, including especially the safety of the minority community.