THE head of the Orange Order has said, ahead of next Sunday's planned Orange march through the nationalist Lower Ormeau Road in Belfast, that Orangemen may have to break the law to assert their rights.
The Rev Martin Smyth's statement yesterday provoked political criticism and a warning from the Irish National Liberation Army (INLA) which said it would "respond" to what unfolded next Sunday.
On Easter Monday there was serious violence at Ormeau Bridge when the RUC prevented an Apprentice Boys' march from parading down the Lower Ormeau Road.
59 far the Orange Order is insisting it will proceed with its march next Sunday while local residents are equally adamant that they will block any such parade.
The RUC has yet to decide whether to allow the parade. Yesterday's developments, however indicate that there is little hope of compromise on the issue at this stage.
Mr Smyth, who is also an Ulster Unionist MP for South Belfast, said yesterday he was optimistic next Sunday's parade would be allowed pass by the Lower Ormeau. But he warned that in future Orangemen might have to break the law if the deadlock over flash point marches is not resolved.
Mr Ronnie Flanagan, the deputy RUC chief constable, said that in no circumstances could the breaking of the law be condoned.
Mr Smyth's comments were also deplored by Mr Steve McBride, the Alliance Party chairman.
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