Lockdown Twelfth: 250 bands expected to take part in indivdual socially distanced parades

band parades Twelfth
Author: Nigel GouldPublished 13th Jul 2020

Up to 250 bands are set to mark a very non traditional Twelfth today (Monday).

They will be taking part in individual parades across their own locations throughout Northern Ireland.

It follows band notifications to the Parades Commission to stage local processions - all strictly subject to covid-19 regulations.

Hundreds of Orange Order parades across the region were cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Wih coronavirus regulations limiting outdoor gatherings to 30, the institution took the historic step of cancelling all of its parades.

Twelfth band parades

Supporters have instead been encouraged by leaders, including First Minister Arlene Foster, to mark the date at home.

Many have expressed frustration at the move after the gathering of hundreds of people, including deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Finance Minister Conor Murphy, at the funeral for veteran republican Bobby Storey.

The PSNI is currently investigating the incident for potential breaches of the coronavirus regulations.

Unionist leaders have urged that this frustration does not lead to defiance of social distancing rules.

Health minister Robin Swann has insisted that the public health advice is as important now as it was at the start of the pandemic.

The Orange Order's Grand Secretary Mervyn Gibson said he is looking forward to the music being brought to his door.

"I hope everyone will have an enjoyable, socially distanced July 12,'' he said

"I will be waving to a band as they pass my gates.

"I would urge all to enjoy the music if it comes to your door but if it doesn't, please don't go out to follow the bands, turn on Radio Boyne and listen to traditional tunes on the online station.

"Stay at home, have a barbeque, have a picnic with your family and any bubble you can go to.

"Whatever you do, obey the regulations.''

A smaller than usual number of loyalist bonfires were lit on Saturday night due to calls to respect the coronavirus regulations.

However, there were large crowds at several fires that did go ahead.