Paul KeenanBand linked with troubled parade in Belfast
A Catholic community in Belfast which has lived in fear of loyalist violence each marching season is “hopeful” for a more peaceful season this year after a controversial marching band announced its disbandment.
Parishioners of St Patrick’s church on Donegall Street have long faced violence and intimidation as loyalist bands passed the church. This year, however, the Young Conway Volunteers, whose actions have previously sparked trouble, will not be present as they have ceased to exist.
On July 12, 2012, the band caused outrage when it defied a Parades Commission ruling and marched in a circle directly outside St Patrick’s while playing a sectarian tune. The action led to heightened tensions in advance of another march on August 25 which subsequently became violent and led to seven PSNI officers sustaining injuries.
Amid suggestions that the Young Conway Volunteers had been shunned by other loyalists for their provocative actions, the band made an online statement alleging “relentless persecution” as it announced its disbandment.
The first loyalist march of 2014 past St Patrick’s, on Easter Monday, April 21, passed off peacefully and in compliance with Parades Commission directions, leading to cautious optimism for the coming marching season.
Speaking to The Irish Catholic this week, Very Rev. Michael Sheehan of St Patrick’s said he was “hopeful that it’ll be quiet”.