Abraham Lincoln once claimed that “A majority held in restraint by constitutional checks and limitations . . . is the only true sovereign of a free people.” As part of the Hillsborough Agreement, Northern Ireland’s two incumbent political parties agreed to undertake a review of public assemblies, parades and protests. Following months of consultation, 20th April 2010 saw the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister publish their consultation paper. This document included a Bill which they hope will become the new law governing such activities.
BY SEAMUS J. MULHOLLAND