Mediator resigns from role in Drumcree dialogue

The South African mediator who was chairing talks between Orangemen in Portadown and the Garvaghy Road residents has resigned from the position following the decision by the Orange Order to withdraw from the talks.

Brian Currin said he is unable to take the mediation process any further because of this move. In his resignation statement, Mr Currin said the Orange Order’s lack of trust for the Garvaghy Road residents was one of the factors contributing to the breakdown of the talks.

He added that Orangemen in Portadown believe the impending review of the Parades Commission will lead to the British government allowing the Orange Order to march through Catholic and nationalist areas, despite the residents’ objections.

Mr Currin said the Portadown Orangemen feel they don’t need to engage in dialogue with the Garvaghy Road residents because this review is going to give the green light for the Drumcree parade anyway. David Jones, a spokesman for the Orangemen, blamed the intransigence of the nationalist residents for the failure of the talks.