Call for survey of Derry's traders over loyalist parades through city centre

A Derry councillor has called for a survey of the city’s traders to ascertain if they want loyalist parades moved out of the city centre.

The call comes from Independent Councillor Gary Donnelly..

He was speaking after police praised all those involved in Saturday’s annual Apprentice Boys' Lundy's Day parade through the city which passed off peacefully.

One man was arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour and was later given a Penalty Notice of Disorder (PND).

Speaking after the event, PSNI Chief Inspector Alan Hutton said it was the result of “tremendous work” from groups across the community.

“I am pleased with how the day passed and his is down to a lot of hard work from so many people right across the city and from all aspects of the community,” he said.

“That includes the parade organisers, stewards, marshals, business community and community representatives. “It is tremendous work that goes on over a long period of time and achieves very positive results.”

He added: “As always we in the PSNI will continue with this ongoing partnership engagement.”

However, Cllr Donnelly hit out at the disruption caused to traders by the event.

“The annual disruption of traders and shoppers associated with this outdated practice needs to end,” he said.

“Thousands of adults parade around the city centre on a number of occasions on what should be one of the busiest shopping days for beleaguered city centre traders. “Disabled parking is restricted and a lot of taxi drivers are forced to go home early. Tensions associated with this parade could be eased if it was moved from the city centre.”

Cllr Donnelly added: “I am calling for a survey to be carried out on city centre businesses to ascertain the views of local traders, similar to the one carried out in the Bogside regarding the August 15th fire located there.”

He concluded: “Subjecting Christmas shoppers, including young children to the spectacle of grown-ups, some with alcohol consumed, cheering the burning of an effigy of someone they don't like is distasteful to say the least.”