Sinn Fein and SDLP angered by Hain’s appeal on Commission appointments
Both the SDLP and Sinn Féin have reacted angrily to news that the Northern Secretary, Peter Hain, is to appeal a judgement that he unlawfully put two Orangemen on the Parades Commission.
Mr. Hain said he was extremely disappointed in the judgement and believed the appointments had been impartial, subjective and had followed all the rules.
With the height of the marching season approaching, the Parades Commission is in disarray.
Belfast high court ruled Mr. Hain was wrong to appoint two Orangemen and encourage nominations from the loyal orders without contacting nationalist residents groups.
He's appealing that ruling, to Sinn Féin and the SDLP's disgust.
SDLP Policing Spokesperson Alex Attwood said that he had been withering and the Commission should be off limits for political fixes, party interests or partisan outcomes.
Sinn Féin assembly member John O’Dowd said Mr. Hain should stop wasting public money on appeals and restoring public confidence by appointing impartial commissioners.
Both parties said the British government should appoint two new genuinely independent Commissioners to take the difficult decisions ahead.
