Northern Ireland Office

The Secretary of State, Peter Hain MP, today welcomed the decision of the Court of Appeal to uphold the Government’s Appeal against the recent Judicial Review of the Parades Commission.

He said: “I welcome today’s decision by the Court of Appeal to uphold the Government’s Appeal against the Judicial Review judgement. In appointing both Roger Poole and the six Commissioners I was seeking to bring fresh thinking and a fresh approach to this difficult issue.  

“I am pleased that David Burrows is restored to the Commission. He has acted with great dignity through a difficult period. He and Donald MacKay put themselves forward to be part of the solution to this issue and that took a great deal of courage.  

“The Parades Commission have continued to work tirelessly throughout this period of uncertainty and now deserve the opportunity to get on with the important role that they undertake on behalf of Northern Ireland.

“I pay tribute to them and to the work which goes on at grass roots level across the community to encourage dialogue, tolerance and understanding.

“Dialogue and mutual respect for each other’s rights is the only way to reach accommodation. We have seen some good examples of this in recent times and I call on all those with influence in the community to continue their efforts to ensure a peaceful summer.”