A Parades Commission ruling that a controversial band parade through Glengormley next week should not be allowed to delay at any point on the route has been welcomed by Sinn Féin councilor Tierna Cunningham.
The parading body's ruling on next Tuesday night's 'mini-Twelfth' parade comes after disturbances at last year's parade when up to 300 loyalist band supporters hurled sectarian abuse at children and young people on the mainly nationalist Church Road.
A flute band taking part in the parade also stopped and played The Sash.
The PSNI came under heavy criticism for their handling of the parade last year after they failed to move the band supporters on and stood by while abuse and threats were hurled at nationalist residents.
"We met with the PSNI last week to raise our concerns over the behaviour during last year's parade and the serious policing failures to tackle sectarian and provocative action by band supporters," said Cllr Cunningham.
"We were encouraged by the meeting and the police assured us they would deal with the many concerns we raised, including alcohol and keeping the parade moving. We hope it passes off this year with the minimum of disruption to local people,” she added.
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