Presidential election displayed Republic’s ‘intolerance,’ says head of Orange Order
Harold Henning, head of the Orange Order, criticized the Republic of Ireland for the 'intolerance' shown toward Protestant identity during last year's presidential election. He praised the dedication of southern members who travel long distances to maintain their lodge presence.
Why it matters
It highlights ongoing sectarian tensions and identity politics within the Republic of Ireland regarding the Orange Order's historical and cultural role.
The abuse directed last year at Fine Gael ’s presidential candidate , Heather Humphreys , over links to the Orange Order showed “the intolerance that still exists” in the Republic of Ireland, the head of the organisation has charged.
The sharply-worded criticisms from Harold Henning, the grand master of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, came during the traditional demonstration held by the order in Rossnowlagh, Co Donegal .
Up to 6,000 members and supporters of the lodge, along with dozens of bands, attended the march which gathered at St John’s Church of Ireland outside Rossnowlagh village before parading to a field near the beach.
Paying tribute to members of the lodge in the Republic, Henning said they “were a credit” to the organisation: “I’m always mindful that the past decades have been a very difficult journey for you, and that journey has often been a lonely one.”
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