Independent review ordered on how decisions are made by Parades Commission

An independent review has been ordered of how the Parades Commission makes its decisions.

Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant made the announcement after the body, which adjudicates on contentious parades in Northern Ireland, was heavily criticised following a High Court ruling which quashed its determination over the Orange Order’s Drumcree parade in Portadown.

Sir Chris met with the commission on Tuesday morning to discuss its response to the issues raised by last week’s ruling.

He said the commission does a “vital job in what can be sensitive and difficult circumstances”, but said it “needs to enjoy the fullest possible confidence of all communities”.

“I have considered the commission’s response to that ruling and, while I am satisfied that the issues raised are being taken seriously and progress is being made, I have decided that an independent review is needed to provide assurance on and consider improvements to the commission’s processes and procedures,” he said.

“This will strengthen the commission’s immediate and future work. In the meantime, the current commissioners have my full backing. It is in the public interest that they continue their critical functions as we work together to restore public trust in this vital institution.”