Statement by TUV vice-chair and Orangeman Keith Harbinson:

“DUP attempts to link the scrapping of the Parades Commission with the devolution of policing and justice will not wash with members of the Loyal Orders.

“The Loyal Orders stated when Ashdown first came out that “legislation required to give effect to the final recommendations should not be dependent on other political issues”.

“The Loyal Orders opposed Ashdown’s attempts to creating an entirely artificial link between policing and justice and parading. And rightly so.

“There is grave unease within the membership of the Loyal Orders at the prospect of policing and justice being devolved to an inclusive executive where those who continue to justify the murder of policemen and judges hold sway. These fears were exacerbated when, just this week, convicted terrorist Gerry Kelly issued a statement announcing a transition programme for police which includes a cross-border element. If Sinn Feinners can do that before the powers come to Stormont imagine the ways they will be able to interfere when the powers are transferred!

“It is nothing short of outrageous that the DUP should seek to go against the express wishes of the Loyal Orders and seek to use the abolition of the Parades Commission as cover to allow Sinn Fein/IRA a direct say in policing and justice.

“Orangemen throughout  Ulster will reject these cynical manoeuvres, and will not want any perceived part in their execution”.