“so I am delighted to be in a position to provide funding..”

Whilst members of the Orange Order protest in parts of Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland’s Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Éamon Ó Cuív, has given approval for funding of €120,000 per annum over a two year period to Cadolemo Ltd – a company set up by Orange lodges based in Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim and Monaghan. From the Irish Times front page report

Mr Ó Cuív has pointed out that his department has already been involved in supporting the refurbishment of a number of Orange halls in the Cavan/Monaghan area under local grant schemes. He also deplored the recent attacks on Orange halls.

“A number of Orange halls in rural areas have been attacked in recent times, activities I totally deplore, so I am delighted to be in a position to provide funding which will be focused, among other things, on developing those facilities for the various groups that use them,” said Mr Ó Cuív.

The Minister said he hoped the work of the new company would also help to strengthen the confidence of the groups that use Orange halls. He stressed the importance of encouraging participation by Orange lodges in the wider community structures in the Border counties.

Pete Baker