First Minister pledges to promote Orange culture

The North's First Minister, Peter Robinson, has pledged to do all he can to increase funding for the Orange Order so it can promote its culture and tradition.

Speaking at the launch of this year's 'Orangefest' Peter Robinson also criticised the Parades Commission and said it had no positive role to play.

Last night passed off peacefully, as more than 500,000 people prepared to take to the streets for the July 12 marches.

Peter Robinson praised the Orange Order for trying to transform the weekend into a cultural festival.

Mr Robinson said the DUP Minister for Culture Gregory Campbell was keen to meet the Order and do what he could to help it.