Orange Order considers reaction to march re-routing

Orange Order members in west Belfast are meeting tonight to decide how to persuade the Parades Commission to back down from re-routing a march in the area on Saturday.

The annual Whiterock Orange Lodge march causes anger in west Belfast every year as it passes through the main peaceline in the city.

Twice a year in the run-up to July 12 and on the day itself, metal gates in the huge brick peace-line - separating the Catholic Falls and Protestant Shankill Roads - open.

Through the gates march Orange men on their way to the White Rock Orange Hall.

Local Catholic residents organise protests, which have in the past led to clashes with marchers and the police.

This year the Parades Commission has ordered Saturday's march take a different route using new roads built on the site of a now closed factory.

The Orange Order is furious and have called tonight's meeting to consider how to change the Commission's ruling.