Orange Order chief says Northern Ireland should not be left in ‘European limbo’
Orange Order Chief Warns Against Northern Ireland's European Limbo
Orange Order chief says Northern Ireland - The Orange Order chief says Northern Ireland must not remain in uncertainty following Brexit, according to Harold Henning, the Grand Master of the organization. Speaking at a significant gathering, Henning emphasized that the region should not be left in what he termed a "European limbo" situation, where it faces unique challenges compared to other parts of the United Kingdom.
During his address in Rathfriland, County Down, Henning stated that Northern Ireland deserves recognition as a fundamental part of the UK. He argued that the territory should not be subjected to European regulations while other British regions have moved past them. His comments coincided with tens of thousands attending one of the most important Orange Order parades on Monday, celebrating the historic Battle of the Boyne.
Celebrations Mark Historic Victory
The celebrations covered eighteen main locations across Northern Ireland on Monday, marking the 336th anniversary of the 1690 battle. In this decisive confrontation, Protestant King William of Orange defeated Catholic King James II, an event that continues to influence the region's cultural identity today.
Political leaders attended the festivities. DUP leader Gavin Robinson joined the Belfast parade with his son Reuben and Lord Dodds. An outward parade through Ardoyne, a former conflict zone, proceeded peacefully with heavy police presence. Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton monitored the event, while Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly also attended.
"The citizens of Northern Ireland should no longer be deprived of the same rights as our fellow citizens in Great Britain."
Brexit Implications Dominate Discussion
Unionist leaders have expressed growing concern about Brexit's impact on Northern Ireland's political and economic position. The region currently operates under arrangements that treat it as part of the European Union, preventing a hard border on the island of Ireland.
Hennig noted that while July 12 is the organization's most significant day, cultural heritage extends beyond annual celebrations. He praised Orange lodges and bands for contributing "an important part in the community life of their respective areas," describing the displayed culture as "great heritage."
"Despite what our enemies may wish for, days like this prove that our Orange family remains strong, vibrant and ready to face the future."
The Grand Master stressed that unresolved Brexit issues require prompt attention from the British Government. Referencing a traditional Unionist slogan, "British Citizens Demand British Rights," he asserted that Northern Ireland should be recognized as fully integrated within the UK rather than navigating European complexities that affect trade.
Weather Influences Parade Schedule
This year's celebrations benefited from warm, sunny conditions as July 12 fell on a Sunday. Consequently, the main Twelfth parades were held on Monday, July 13. The Orange Order parade in Rossnowlagh, County Donegal, occurred on Saturday, while the Royal Black Preceptory's traditional July 13 events in Scarva, County Armagh, were moved to Tuesday.
The Scarva gathering includes both a parade and a sham fight depicting the rivalry between monarchs William and James. Earlier in the week, bonfires were lit at hundreds of locations across loyalist neighborhoods on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.
Incidents and Final Parade Details
While most bonfires proceeded without controversy, a replica mosque placed atop a bonfire in Moygashel, County Tyrone, attracted criticism. The fire was ignited earlier than planned after the Police Service of Northern Ireland began removing the effigy. Tragically, a man died in hospital on Saturday after falling from a loyalist bonfire in east Belfast on Friday evening.
Main Orange Order parades are scheduled for Monday in Ballymena, Larne, Ballymoney, Portglenone, Glenarm, Newtownhamilton, Belfast, Rathfriland, Killyleagh, and Royal Hillsboro. Henning concluded by affirming that the Orange Order believes Northern Ireland's future is best secured as an integral component of the United Kingdom, both economically and politically, despite existing challenges.