Joint statement by TUV leader Jim Allister and councillors Donna Anderson, William Blair, Timothy Gaston and Ald Stewart McDonald:
“Tonight we will be attending the annual Ballymaconnolly SOC band parade in Rasharkin. The parade is one of the very few expressions of Unionist and Loyalist culture left in the village.
“Sadly in recent years there have been persistent attempts by Sinn Fein/IRA and other republican elements to cause tensions around the demonstration, which the parades Commission has assisted by imposing unnecessary restrictions.
“We wish all who will take part or come to enjoy the parade tonight an enjoyable and peaceful time.”