Republican News · Thursday 26 June 2003

Springfield residents would welcome dialogue

Reports that residents' five-point initiative to avert serious trouble at one of the most controversial Orange marches has been discussed at Grand Lodge level have been welcomed by the residents group.

"If the reports are true then it will be seen as a positive attitude to resolving the situation surrounding the Orange march on 28 June," spokesperson for Springfield residents, Frances McAuley, told An Phoblacht.

"Residents of the Springfield Road have been willing to talk to the Orange Order and any other interested parties to find an acceptable accommodation to the problem of Orange marches. I will look forward to face to face dialogue with the Order."

Residents feel if the initiative is accepted by the Orange Order, it will be a 'win win' situation for all concerned. "The fear, tension and violence traditionally associated with the marching season on the Springfield Road could be averted if this is a genuine attempt to enter into dialogue with the residents," said McAuley. The initiative is being publicly supported by 32 community groups in Greater West Belfast.

Sinn Féin President and West Belfast MP Gerry Adams has urged the Orange Order to engage constructively with the residents. He said it was an imaginative plan deserved a positive response from the Order.