Cllr McLean hits out at parade restrictions

He state: “The Parades Commission has once again shown itself to be completely incompetent. It seems to be incapable of making any reasonable or logical decisions as it continues to reward Republicans and demonise our Protestant/Unionist culture.

“The latest ruling for the Ballymaconnelly Flute Band parade in Rasharkin is an utter outrage. The imposition, that the bands must now only play a single drumbeat past Republican protesters, leaves little doubt about were the Parades Commissions allegiance lays.

“Don’t forget, this same Commission has recently given permission for two Republican parades in Derrylin and Belfast, yet it is Ballymaconnelly Flute Band who are being treated as criminals. However, I have no doubt that Ballymaconnelly Flute Band will do all in it’s power to once again this year, deliver a peaceful and enjoyable parade in the face of Republican intolerance.

“The Parades Commission has again proved itself to be part of the problem not the solution. I will continue to pursue these matters with my fellow councillors and elected representatives, and continue to call for the abolition of a body which has lost all credibility in the eyes of the unionist people. “