It was nice to hear the words of appreciation from the R.U.C.
Chief Constable Sir Ronnie Flanagan in the wake of the "relatively
quiet Drumcree." He paid compliment to the Orange Institution
for its determination to distance itself from lawlessness
and violence, and its success in maintaining good order. There
was a general realisation this year that the Institution has
only peaceful intentions. But it was always so, the horrific
scenes of other years at Drumcree and elsewhere in Northern
Ireland were not what the Order wanted and the condemnation
of them came loudest from the Institution. Everywhere when
there is a protest demonstration against what has been seen
as an injustice there are the "hangers on", the
mobs who with their own agenda wreak a havoc which hurts the
legitimate protesters as much as it does the police, people
and businesses they target. No organisation has suffered more
than the Orange Institution from unwelcome "supporters."
The realisation of that fact, if belated by some observers
of the Ulster scene, is welcome. What happened at Drumcree
2001 was what the Order wanted, a legitimate, orderly, impressive,
peaceful protest against that which was contrary to natural
justice and their human rights. Important, too, was the service
and ceremony in Drumcree Parish Church which has its concentration
on the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme. A most, memorable
and meaningful tribute to those who died there and of gratitude
for their sacrifice in the continuing struggle for life, liberty
and the pursuit of happiness in a world where human personality
is often discounted and man's inhumanity to man a constant
evil. Credit has been given, year by year, to the Rev. John
Pickering, rector of Drumcree Church, for his courage in the
face of intemperate attacks from churchmen far removed mentally
and physically from Drumcree. His commitment to Christ, the
Gospel and the Church is an example to everyone who would
do what he believes to be right in spite of attacks made on
him. Mr. Pickering's concern for our Orange brethren is expressed
sensitively, and as befitting a Christian minister positively
and pungently. We are always grateful to him for an understanding
of our position anent Drumcree and for speaking out on the
truth of the problem in the courts of the church and by the
media.
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