The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Sir has today ordered an
independent judge-led review of the decision-making procedures of
the Parades Commission.
Sir Chris met with the Commission this morning to discuss the
body's response to the serious issues raised by last week's High
Court ruling on the Drumcree parade.
The judge will be asked to examine the Commission's processes and
will report directly to Sir Chris.
After a constructive meeting with the commissioners, Sir
Chris said:
The Parades Commission does a vital job in what can be sensitive
and difficult circumstances.
We must not lose sight of the significant progress Northern
Ireland has made over the last three decades in easing tensions
around parades.
I am clear that the Commission needs to enjoy the fullest
possible confidence of all communities. That is particularly
important in the wake of the court's ruling.
I have considered the Commission's response to that ruling and,
while I am satisfied that the issues raised are being taken
seriously and progress is being made, I have decided that an
independent review is needed to provide assurance on and consider
improvements to the Commission's processes and procedures.
This will strengthen the Commission's immediate and future work.
In the meantime, the current commissioners have my full backing.
It is in the public interest that they continue their critical
functions as we work together to restore public trust in this
vital institution.
Sir Chris has also asked officials to launch a public
appointments process as soon as possible to appoint
commissioners. This is standard practice as one commissioner has
resigned and existing commissioners are approaching the end of
their term of office.
Looking ahead, the Secretary of State urged all communities to
continue supporting the important work of the Commission and to
conduct parades and protests in a lawful manner.
I would urge everyone to support the independent judge-led review
and to give the commission time and space to rebuild confidence
and regain its footing.
There is no justification for anyone stepping outside the law,
including in relation to the lawful notification of parades.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- The vast majority of parades now take place peacefully and
without community tension.
- Less than 5% of the near 4,000 parades that take place
annually are deemed sensitive.
- Further details of the reviewer and terms of reference will
be provided shortly.
- Three members of the Parades Commission complete their terms
of office at the end of December 2026 and the remaining two at
the end of March 2027.
