Foster and McGuinness welcome Twaddell/Crumlin Road Agreement

Date published: 24 September 2016

The First Minister Rt Hon Arlene Foster MLA said: "The agreement reached between three Orange Order lodges in North Belfast and Ardoyne residents representatives comes about following engagement in a local dialogue process.

"The understanding they have reached is a welcome development and is a significant step given this has been an initiative between the Orange and local residents.

"I said at the start of the summer that we all have a responsibility to show leadership and to continue to seek resolutions to contentious issues through discussion and to ensure any difficulties are identified and resolved peacefully. By doing so we become stronger as a community and a country.

"I thank all those involved. We want to build a future that is respectful, inclusive and vibrant. Northern Ireland can have a very bright future built on respect and celebration of diversity."

The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA said: "An agreement that has the full support of the three lodges and the Crumlin Ardoyne Residents Association is something I welcome and support.

"I commend the Rev. Harold Good and Jim Roddy who have worked positively and considerately with everyone in the local community to reach this agreement.

"We must resolve disagreements regarding parades, identity, culture and tradition through dialogue so that difference is celebrated and respected.

"The next phase of our political and peace processes must be the development of a real reconciliation process.

"As leaders we will work with Executive colleagues to ensure tolerance, equality and mutual respect are key tenets of our new shared future."