An SDLP member has taken to social media to highlight an example of “mutual respect” between the Orange Order and the GAA.
On Sunday evening, Rían Ó Néill was in Moneymore to welcome the victorious Derry minor team through the town as they made their way to their homecoming celebrations in Magherafelt.
The Oak Leafers won their sixth All-Ireland Minor football title with a seven-point success over Monaghan at the Box-It Athletic Grounds earlier in the day.
It was the first time two teams from Ulster had contested the Minor decider with James Sargent of Lavey scoring the only goal in a 1-13 to 0-9 win in front of 13,754 spectators at the Armagh City venue.
Mr Ó Néill praised the Orange Order for delaying the start of their parade as the Derry team made their way through the town on Sunday evening.
“Earlier today, I had the pleasure of waiting in Moneymore to welcome home the Derry Minor All-Ireland Champions.” Mr Ó Néill wrote on Twitter.
“I couldn't help but notice how the local Orange Order lodges waited until the Derry bus had passed through before starting their parade.
“They stood respectfully, many even applauded the team as the bus went by. This is a perfect example of the kind of mutual respect and good relations that are present throughout Moneymore.
“Although tensions and sectarianism often make the headlines, it's important to highlight the good news of coexistence happening quietly across Northern Ireland.”
Mid-Ulster SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone replied to the post, commenting: “Neighbours respecting each other - the way it should be.”
