Northern Ireland Office

The Orange Order has an important role to play in creating a new shared future for Northern Ireland where all traditions and cultures are respected, Secretary of State Peter Hain MP has said.

He was speaking during a visit to Schomberg House, the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland headquarters today, where he officially opened the new Williamite Archive Exhibition.

Peter Hain said: “The Orange Order is proud of its history but it should be confident that it also has an important role to play in the future.

“The future for Northern Ireland must be a shared one, and the Orange Order has its part to play to enhance mutual respect and understanding for all traditions and cultures.”

The visit by Peter Hain to Schomberg House is the first time that a Secretary of State has ever visited Orange headquarters and he took the opportunity to praise the initiative of engagement undertaken by the Orange Order leadership.

He said: “I hope that my visit marks the beginning of a new and improved relationship between the Orange Order and the Government.

“At our most recent meeting, you presented me with a dossier which listed a range of concerns. I am committed to do what I can to help address those concerns.

“On the issue of insurance for Orange Halls, I have asked David Hanson to meet insurance companies to look at this issue and I will keep you informed of any developments.

“The initiative of engagement taken by the Orange leadership last year was a positive and courageous step and was one of the key reasons why Northern Ireland enjoyed its most peaceful marching seasons for many years.”