Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
THE SASH PLAYERS HALL BAN
Bands barred from booking venue
TWO groups have been banned from booking Belfast City Hall after an investigation into breaches of terms and conditions of use.
A video from October last year showed Govan Protestant Boys playing The Sash as part of an event organised by the George Telford Memorial Grand Lodge.
In a statement on Friday, Belfast City Council said both have been banned from booking the venue.
They also said existing terms and conditions are to be reviewed to “ensure they are in line with council’s equality obligations”.
The statement read: “At today’s meeting of council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, members were updated on the outcome of an investigation into events at City Hall on the evening of October 12, 2019, during a centenary dinner hosted by the George Telford Memorial Grand Lodge.
“Belfast City Council regrets this incident occurred and has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting equality and good relations and ensuring council facilities are welcome and open to all.
“As a result of the investigation into breaches of City Hall’s terms and conditions of use, members have agreed to the recommendation to review the existing terms of conditions to ensure they are in line with council’s equality obligations.
“Members have also agreed to consider sanctions against groups who fail to comply with the terms of use of council facilities and banned George Telford Memorial Grand Lodge and Govan Protestant Boys from booking City Hall in the future.
“This decision is to be ratified at full council on March 2.” At the time, a statement was issued from Orange Order headquarters labelled as “on behalf of George Telford Memorial LOL 1118”.
It said: “On Saturday evening, October 12, George Telford Memorial LOL 1118, held a private function at Belfast City Hall. This was organised as part of our centenary celebrations.
“We are aware of videos circulating on social media of Govan Protestant Boys playing within the public area of City Hall. We will fully co-operate with the investigation of Belfast City Council.”
The Orange Order has been contacted for comment.