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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Orlaith Clinton

Twelfth of July: Bonfires lit across Northern Ireland

Crowds gathered last night and into the early hours as Eleventh Night bonfires were lit across Northern Ireland.

Many of last night's gathering were significantly smaller than previous years, however crowds in excess of 30 were witnessed at some pyres amid Covid-19 restrictions.

Executive advice means crowds of no more than 30 are permitted outside, while inside gatherings are capped at six people.

Lower Newtownards Road, in East Belfast. (Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye)

A spokesperson for Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said they responded to 24 bonfire related incidents between 6pm July 11 and 1am July 12.

"This represents a decrease of 29.5% on last year’s total for the same period," a spokesperson added.

“NIFRS can confirm there were no attacks on fire service personnel or appliances at any of the above incidents.

“Overall, for the above period, NIFRS received a total of 135 emergency calls and attended 92 operational incidents, including vehicle fires, special service calls, gorse and other types of emergency incidents."

The Parades Commission say there are 287 notified parades for this year, to date and that the PSNI is responsible for enforcing Covid-19 Regulations at them.

A spokesperson added: "Early cancellation of the Twelfth by the Orange Order has created the template for parading this summer, with the main demonstrations not taking place. The Apprentice Boys and the Royal Black Preceptory have cancelled their August demonstrations.    

Firefighters hose down a chemist under threat on Duncairn Gardens (Photopress Belfast)

“Individual bands with 30 participants have planned local parades on 11 to 13 July and to date there are 287 notified parades. The Commission has considered it necessary to impose restrictions on three parades based upon pre-existing parading tensions in those specific locations. The PSNI is responsible for enforcing Covid-19 Regulations.

“The Commission has had a high level of positive engagement with the vast majority of organisers. A representative body of the bands is providing guidance on safe conduct, social distancing and supporters, and the Commission is encouraging all organisers to abide by the

Police also urged people to stay at home over the Twelfth weekend.

They said: "We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Twelfth of July. Online events have been planned to celebrate the occasion and we would encourage you to enjoy these from home."

 
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