Brady ‘concerned’ ahead of major Newry band parade
Newry and Armagh Sinn Féin MP Mickey Brady has said that the major band parade being organised by the Loyal Sons of Benagh Flute Band, will cause major inconvenience to local residents, businesses and the entire city of Newry.
The parade, which traditionally passes off peacefully, will have 84 bands participating.
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Speaking to Newry Times, the local MP stated, “There is a major band parade planned for Friday 21st April in Newry.
“The parade is being organised by the Loyal Sons of Benagh Flute Band. I have been contacted by local residents who have been informed that 84 bands and 4,000 participants are expected.
He continued, “Myself nor the residents are trying to inhibit the right of those organising this band parade to celebrate their culture, but we do believe that they are not respecting the rights of the residents and businesses.
“This band parade is not welcomed by the majority of local residents and negatively impacts on the local business community.
“Past experiences have shown the way that local residents are placed in “lock down” mode, major traffic disruption and gridlock takes place throughout the city and local businesses suffer,” he insisted.
“Sinn Féin feel that we have an obligation to act on behalf of local residents and businesses who have contacted us and with this in mind elected representatives have communicated our concerns to the Parades Commission.
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Brady added, “I would encourage all residents, political and community representatives who share my concern to contact the Parades Commission.”
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If it has to happen, why not use Hill St? It’s non-residential, totally dead at night, plenty of parking. No residents to disturb and no traffic to disrupt. It’s probably longer than the regular March route.