§ Lord Eamesasked Her Majesty's Government:
What their current plans are to reach an agreed solution to the continuing issue of Drumcree; and whether they consider there is sufficient urgency in reaching agreement in light of the consequences of failure for the peace process in Northern Ireland. [HL2208]
§ Lord Williams of MostynParading in Northern Ireland is an important issue, particularly so in areas of contention, and none is more contentious than Drumcree. The Government have over the last number of years instigated and supported a number of efforts to find a solution, both at ministerial and official level. This we will continue to do where we belive we have a positive role to play in facilitating a resolution.
On 4 January 2002 the Parades Commission, which is the legally constituted body set up by government to deal with the issue of parades in Northern Ireland, announced it was ready to play its fullest part in facilitating dialogue and debate and was looking to enlist support for core parading values or principles, that can be applied to any parading situation.
A resolution to Druncree can only be found through genuine dialogue. The Apprentice Boys of Derry main parades in Londonderry are an example of how a solution can be found to the satisfaction of all.
§ Lord Eamesasked Her Majesty's Government:
What level of consultation and co-operation they have sought from the Government of the Republic of Ireland in seeking a solution to the Drumcree issue. [HL2210]
§ Lord Williams of MostynThe issue of parades in Northern Ireland is a matter for this Government and the people of Northern Ireland. Any solution to 9WA Drumcree can only be found through genuine dialogue between the parties involved. The Government have, and are, ready to facilitate any genuine attempt to find an agreed solution to this issue.
We have not consulted with, or sought formal cooperation from the Government of the Republic of Ireland, but that government have been supportive of initiatives, whether led by this Government or independent of it, in an attempt to resolve the Drumcree issue.
§ Lord Eamesasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have given sufficient reassurance to those engaged in the commercial and social life of Portadown about their efforts to resolve the Drumcree issue. (HL2211)
Lord Willliams of MostynNo one should be in any doubt about the Government's commitment to resolve the Drumcree issue. Over the last number of years a number of initiatives have been sponsored by the Government including those led by Frank Blair, Director of the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service Scotland, the Prime Minister's chief of staff and the former Minister of State, the right honourable Adam Ingram. The Government also supported and facilitated the recent independent initiative led by Brian Currin to find an agreed solution to the problem.