05/05/98 Last Update

Orange Order urges rejection of peace treaty

In Northern Ireland, the Orange Order called upon Protestants to reject the peace treaty which was negotiated recently by the British and Irish governments and several Northern Irish political parties.

While not an official political organization, the Orange Order has substantial clout due to its large Protestant membership.  The Order's resolution is a direct challenge to Ulster Unionist Party leader David Trimble, and to Loyalist paramilitary statements to date.

What effects, if any, the Orange Order's resolution will have on Protestant voters is unclear, as their normally somewhat cohesive leaders are sending mixed messages.

The Orange Order's concerns, predictably, stem from Irish government involvement in the province's political future.  In the past, at least, that has been viewed as a "slippery slope" towards Irish unification.

The group does not believe that the treaty is a victory for Unionism, as was proclaimed by Trimble at the end of the negotiations.  That statement may also have an effect on the stand Sinn Fein decides to take, as well.   Sinn Fein has not yet held their annual conference.

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