A SINN Fein Ard Comhairle member, Mrs Bernadette O'Hagan, said the issue of Orange and Apprentice Boys' parades went to the heart of the conflict in the North.
"The Orange Order or the Apprentice Boys cannot march where they want, promoting their sectarian and racist ideology. They certainly should not be allowed to march through areas where they are clearly not welcome and where their presence is offensive and intimidating," she said.
"Unionist and Orange leaders maintain that the marches aren't intended to be triumphalist and sectarian, that they are merely harmless, aspects of celebrating a cultural heritage. If they are so benign in intent why, then, do they refuse to talk to the communities concerned? Why do they not try to convince them of their goodwill?" she asked.
"Until nationalists are treated as equals, until our rights and concerns are recognised in law and in fact, there will be no political progress.
"Unionists should recognise that and, as a start, should begin talking to all their nationalist neighbours, not just a selective few," said Mrs O'Hagan.
