'Zero-tolerance' to sectarianism at Glasgow Orange Order parade

Published on Friday 1 July 2011 13:35

Police have issued a warning that they will take a "zero-tolerance" approach to sectarian behaviour during tomorrow's Orange Order parade.

Around 8,000 marchers from 182 lodges are expected at the event in Glasgow on Saturday.

This year, for the first time, the march will be accompanied mainly by professionally-trained stewards employed by the organisers.

This will free up police officers to focus on sectarian behaviour, drinking in public and other offences.

Police have worked closely with the Orange Order and Glasgow City Council to devise the new way of managing the event this year.

After parading from George Square to Glasgow Green for a rally, dispersal parades will set off back to their local areas at 1.30pm, four hours earlier than usual.

The authorities urged marchers to behave themselves and enjoy the day.

Chief Superintendent Bernard Higgins, commander for the city centre, said: "On the day, we will not tolerate anti-sectarian behaviour of any kind and my officers will adopt a zero-tolerance approach.

"Commit sectarian offences and you will be arrested. Don't bring alcohol as, again, my officers will seize it from you and you will be given a fixed-penalty fine for public drinking.

"This kind of behaviour is totally unacceptable and only causes fear and alarm to innocent people enjoying time in the city centre.

"Our message is, by all means, come to support the parade but don't bring booze and don't behave like a bigot or you could find yourself spending the rest of the weekend in a cell."

Police said it is recognised that it is not the people taking part in the parade who cause trouble but an "unwelcome minority" who turn up and use the event as an excuse to drink and cause offence.

Henry Dunbar, Grand Master of the Orange Order, said: "I call upon every member of the Order to enjoy the day with the utmost decorum.

"I also have a message to our more boisterous supporters: you are welcome, but please enjoy the music, colour and excitement of the march responsibly - and leave the booze at home."

The main parade, accompanied by around 800 stewards, sets off from George Square at 10.30am and motorists were advised to leave extra time for their journeys.