Heightened security for flashpoint parade

A major security operation was expected today for a flashpoint loyalist parade in west Belfast.

With nationalists incensed by the authorities reversing their decision and letting the Orange Order walk through a staunchly Catholic district, police and army were prepared to deal with any trouble.

The Parades Commission had originally barred marchers from walking along part of the Springfield Road during the bitterly contested annual Whiterock procession.

The ruling body cited loyalist paramilitary emblems and a refusal to talk with residents for its decision.

But amid intense anger at the ban, and after talks with political and community representatives, the block was lifted.

Marchers must ensure all terrorist flags are removed while a flute band which flouted the rules last year has been told it cannot take part.

Margaret Walsh, a west Belfast councillor with the nationalist SDLP demanded action if marchers do not abide by the conditions.

She said: “I hope people are able to stand by whatever decisions they have made and carry out the rulings that have been decided on.

“But if there are breaches today will there be immediate action to remove flags, emblems or indeed if there’s music that isn’t just a drumbeat, can immediate action be taken to stop that music as well?”