Court upholds Drumcree parade ruling after 'unprecedented' late-night hearing

In an "unprecedented" late-night hearing, the High Court in Belfast upheld the Parade Commission's ruling allowing the Orange Order to march on Garvaghy Road. The 2.15am conclusion saw legal teams reiterate arguments concerning the contentious Drumcree parade, which had been a notorious flashpoint of the Troubles in the 90s. Justice Michael Humphreys acknowledged the "unusual if not unprecedented circumstances" as the parade was scheduled to begin just over six hours after the hearing commenced.

He emphasized that as a public body, the courts must respect the Parade Commission's judgement and decisions will not be lightly interfered with. The Court of Appeal, comprising Lady Justice Denise McBride, Justice Keegan, and Humphreys, upheld the appeal by Portadown Orangeman Alan Hynes, preventing the parade from proceeding according to the commission's restrictions.

The dispute dates back to the 1990s, with nationalist residents of Garvaghy Road opposing the parade passing through their area, leading to violent clashes and political tension. Despite the Parades Commission granting interim relief, both unionist and nationalist parties expressed outrage over the decision.