Drumcree Church
Credit: Raymond Okonski [CC BY-SA 2.0]

This comes in the wake of the High Court decision last week that quashed a determination of the Commission in relation to the Orange Order march along the Garvaghy Road.

Judge McAlinden described the decision making at the Commission as “sloppy” and Commissioner, Billy Gamble, resigned after facing criticism for comments made in an email in relation to the annual Drumcree parade that: “Mediation is a non-starter, so let’s not give them an angle to keep prodding us”.

The Commission has since faced widespread condemnation from unionist politicians who described the High Court decision as a “seismic” and “totemic” victory. DUP leader Gavin Robinson called for an “independent review of how parading is governed in Northern Ireland”.

Sir Chris stated last week that public confidence in the Commission has been damaged and needs to be restored.

This is supported by reporting in the Belfast Telegraph that bands and Orange lodges are drawing up plans for a collective refusal to notify the Commission if current commissioners do not resign.

Sir Chris met with the Commission yesterday morning to discuss the body’s response to the serious issues raised by last week’s High Court ruling on the Drumcree parade.

The judge will be asked to examine the Commission’s processes and will report directly to Sir Chris.

After a meeting with the commissioners, Sir Chris said: “The Parades Commission does a vital job in what can be sensitive and difficult circumstances. 

“We must not lose sight of the significant progress Northern Ireland has made over the last three decades in easing tensions around parades.

“I am clear that the Commission needs to enjoy the fullest possible confidence of all communities. That is particularly important in the wake of the court’s ruling.

“I have considered the Commission’s response to that ruling and, while I am satisfied that the issues raised are being taken seriously and progress is being made, I have decided that an independent review is needed to provide assurance on and consider improvements to the Commission’s processes and procedures.

“This will strengthen the Commission’s immediate and future work. In the meantime, the current commissioners have my full backing. It is in the public interest that they continue their critical functions as we work together to restore public trust in this vital institution.”

Sir Chris has also asked officials to launch a public appointments process as soon as possible to appoint commissioners. This is standard practice as one commissioner has resigned and existing commissioners are approaching the end of their term of office.

The Northern Ireland secretary urged all communities to continue supporting the important work of the Commission and to conduct parades and protests in a lawful manner.

“I would urge everyone to support the independent judge-led review and to give the commission time and space to rebuild confidence and regain its footing.

“There is no justification for anyone stepping outside the law, including in relation to the lawful notification of parades.”