The Orange Order leader tells unionists they can be confident in Northern Ireland’s future

The Orange Order leader told unionists they could be confident in Northern Ireland’s future.

Grand Master Edward Stephenson was commenting on the stone inauguration marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of Northern Ireland last year.

Among those attending the event at the Orange Order headquarters in East Belfast were DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and TUV leader Jim Alistair.

In Stormont last year, Sinn Fine halted an attempt by union parties to build a centuries-old stone near the Parliament buildings.

The party said the stone was “designed and ordered by members of the tradition” and accused the unionists of consulting with other parties on their plan.

The stone found Saturday in Schaumburg’s home is made of basalt mined at Co Antrim.

The dedication service was led by Reverend Alistair Smith, High Priest of the Institute.

Orange Order is also planning a 100-year parade on May 28 after last year’s jubilee plans failed due to Covid-19.

Mr. Stevenson said it was important that we celebrate a “super-important milestone in our history”.

“Frustrating, but it is expected that by 2021 there will be those who have told us that there is nothing unusual,” he said.

They have tried to undermine, destabilize and erase the history of our people and our country.

“Let me point out that for the past twelve months or more, the Orange family has unabashedly celebrated Northern Ireland.

“We are all very proud of this place and its achievements over the past 10 decades.

“The Orange Institute is an integral part of Northern Ireland’s history and many of those who helped create it were members of our system.

“I firmly believe this is a proud story that allows us to be confident and secure in our sense of place, our identity and our country as we look forward to the next 100 years together.”