Secretary of State Orders Independent Judge-led Review of Parades Commission
The Secretary of State has today ordered an independent judge-led review of the decision-making procedures of the Parades Commission.
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Sir Chris Bryant
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Sir Chris Bryant has today ordered an independent judge-led review of the decision-making procedures of the Parades Commission.
Sir Chris met with the Commission this morning to discuss the body’s response to the serious issues raised by last week’s High Court ruling on the Drumcree parade.
The judge will be asked to examine the Commission’s processes and will report directly to Sir Chris.
After a constructive meeting with the commissioners, Sir Chris said:
The Parades Commission does a vital job in what can be sensitive and difficult circumstances.
We must not lose sight of the significant progress Northern Ireland has made over the last three decades in easing tensions around parades.
I am clear that the Commission needs to enjoy the fullest possible confidence of all communities. That is particularly important in the wake of the court’s ruling.
I have considered the Commission’s response to that ruling and, while I am satisfied that the issues raised are being taken seriously and progress is being made, I have decided that an independent review is needed to provide assurance on and consider improvements to the Commission’s processes and procedures.
This will strengthen the Commission’s immediate and future work. In the meantime, the current commissioners have my full backing. It is in the public interest that they continue their critical functions as we work together to restore public trust in this vital institution.
Sir Chris has also asked officials to launch a public appointments process as soon as possible to appoint commissioners. This is standard practice as one commissioner has resigned and existing commissioners are approaching the end of their term of office.
Looking ahead, the Secretary of State urged all communities to continue supporting the important work of the Commission and to conduct parades and protests in a lawful manner.
I would urge everyone to support the independent judge-led review and to give the commission time and space to rebuild confidence and regain its footing.
There is no justification for anyone stepping outside the law, including in relation to the lawful notification of parades.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- The vast majority of parades now take place peacefully and without community tension.
- Less than 5% of the near 4,000 parades that take place annually are deemed sensitive.
- Further details of the reviewer and terms of reference will be provided shortly.
- Three members of the Parades Commission complete their terms of office at the end of December 2026 and the remaining two at the end of March 2027.