Warning Ahead Of Orange Order/SDLP Talks
Speaking in advance of talks between the SDLP and Orange Order planned for
tomorrow,
Sinn Féin Assembly member for Upper Bann John O'Dowd said that
such
dialogue was no substitute for engagement between the Orange Order and
those
representing communities they wish to march through.
Mr O'Dowd
said:
"While all dialogue is welcome there are many within the
nationalist
community and particularly those living in areas previously
put under siege
by the Orange Order and their followers who fear that
these talks will be
promoted as an alternative to the proper engagement
which is required.
"They are no such thing. Talks between the
Orange Order and the SDLP do not
represent a direct engagement with the
nationalist community and should not
be promoted as such." ENDS