Speaking after attending the parade and church service, Carla Lockhart MP said:

“I was proud to stand alongside the brethren of Portadown District LOL No. 1 as they participated in today’s Drumcree parade with the dignity, respect and discipline that have become the hallmark of this annual demonstration of faith, culture and tradition."

“For 27 years, the brethren have been prevented from returning home by their traditional route. Despite the disappointment and frustration that has accompanied each determination of the Parades Commission, they have continued to pursue their objective through lawful and peaceful means. Today’s events once again demonstrated their commitment to seeking a just and lasting resolution."

“For many years, I have stood alongside the Portadown brethren in Parliament, in public and, most recently, through my attendance at the High Court during Friday’s emergency judicial review proceedings. I was honoured to spend the entire day in court in support of the case alongside the legal team acting for the applicant."

“Friday’s hearing marked a significant moment in this long-running dispute. The Court determined that there are matters of sufficient significance requiring further investigation before the challenge can be determined, including further scrutiny of the Parades Commission’s decision-making process. After almost three decades of repeated determinations, it is right that those processes are now being carefully examined by the Court."

“I want to place on record my sincere appreciation for the legal team, including John Larkin KC, Emma McIlveen BL and Jamie Bryson LL.B, for the professionalism, expertise and meticulous preparation they have brought to this case. Their commitment has ensured that serious questions surrounding the Parades Commission’s decision-making process will now receive the judicial scrutiny they deserve."

“It was also encouraging to see the continued support of the senior leadership of the Orange Institution, together with county officers and representatives from across the wider Orange family. Their presence demonstrated the unity and resolve that exists throughout the Institution in support of the Portadown brethren."

“The words, ‘Here we stand, we can do no other,’ echoed powerfully today. They reflect the determination of the brethren to continue pursuing justice through peaceful, lawful and democratic means until they are permitted to walk home along their traditional route."

“As someone who is immensely proud of our Orange heritage, our bands and our wider unionist culture, I believe diversity and tolerance must apply to everyone. Much is said about building a shared future, yet genuine respect cannot exist if there is no tolerance for Orangemen peacefully returning home from their church parade. Mutual respect must work both ways."

“I will continue to stand with the Portadown brethren, both on the ground and in support of their legal challenge, until this long-standing injustice is brought to an end. Their perseverance, dignity and steadfast commitment over the past 27 years deserve recognition, and I remain hopeful that meaningful progress can now be achieved.”