A contentious loyal order parade past the scene of a sectarian murder in Northern Ireland has been rerouted, it was revealed today.
Union flags were removed by the Orange Order near where Kevin McDaid was beaten to death on a housing estate in Coleraine, Co Derry last month.
Killowen lodge’s Somme remembrance parade takes place on Wednesday.
A spokesman said: “It is felt by the members of Killowen L.O.L. 930 that this is an extremely appropriate gesture which should be accepted by all concerned as a sincere and genuine attempt to ease any potential community tensions, fears, or worries which may exist along the parade route.”
Loyalists and nationalist residents were involved in a tense stand-off in the town over the union flags and bunting last night.
But today the loyal order announced a range of steps designed to defuse anger.
There will be no walk along Somerset Drive, which was at the heart of May’s violence, which also left another man, Damian Fleming, battling for life.
Music will be restricted voluntarily and supporters will not be allowed into the contentious area. No alcohol will be allowed.
Nationalist SDLP Assembly member John Dallat said: “Efforts to reach consensus were not helped by the decision to erect flags in that area last night but that doesn’t mean we should not try to reach a compromise.”
He said the parade should be banned from nearby Pates Lane as well.
The MLA said he had asked for talks with the Orange Order but received no response.
PA