Support for residents' opposition to march
by Michael Browne
Springfield Road residents this week signalled their
determination to resist the Orange parade and attendant RUC and
British Army curfew which passes through their area every summer
by unveiling a mural opposite Lanark Way on the Springfield Road.
Springfield Road Residents Action Group (SRAG) spokesperson
Frances McAuley, speaking at the unveiling last Monday, said that
``given the changed demographics of the district, Orange marches
are not wanted. A survey of 1230 houses within the district
revealed 98% opinion in favour of the march being rerouted,
through the logical alternative route in Protestant districts,
well away from nationalist homes.'' An application to the RUC for
residents to peacefully oppose the marches is about to be
submitted.
A 200 strong crowd at the unveiling included local councillors.
As with North Belfast residents who are preparing to peacefully
oppose the Orange march on the 19 June, SRAG have plans to
increase awareness of their campaign, starting with white line
pickets at Lanark Way from 4.30-5.00pm on the Fridays leading up
to the march.