More than 200 people have completed a college course in stewarding loyalist band parades, it emerged today.
Representatives from the Apprentice Boys, Orange Order and Royal Black Institution have all undertaken the programme run by East Tyrone Institute in Dungannon, County Tyrone.
Course co-ordinator Mr Paul Maxwell said there was growing interest among loyalist organisations about sending members on the course.
"This is done through word of mouth but the uptake has been good. We've had at least 200 people through it," he said.
"There's a market for this and it will get bigger given the reduction in the number of police."
Sir George Quigley, who is undertaking a review of the Parades Commission, has prepared a paper seeking the public's opinions on the organisation's backing for a further education course in marshalling band parades.
The 10 hours of classes cost a total of £30 sterling. The sessions are run as part of East Tyrone college's commitment to public and community safety.
But 50 per cent funding is provided by the Parades Commission, the Community Relations Council and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure.
PA