Unionists warn of possible violence at Belfast parade

Unionist politicians have warned of potential violence at a contentious Orange Order parade in Belfast this weekend.

The Parades Commission has decided to re-route the Whiterock parade away from nationalist areas, a move that has sparked anger among loyalists and unionists.

DUP leader Ian Paisley called the decision “disastrous and unacceptable” and said “anything could happen on Saturday” as the “Protestant people and the Orangemen were outraged”.

UUP leader David Trimble said the situation looked “serious and dangerous”, while UUP councillor Chris McGimpsey said the potential for violence was clear.

Meanwhile, two other councillors from parties linked to the UDA and UVF walked into the Parades Commission offices yesterday warning of trouble.