Published: Tuesday, 7th July, 2009 3:59pm

FIERCE OPPOSITION TO RELIGIOUS WALK

by Mike Farrell

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THERE are fears that a proposed march through Dumbarton by a group linked to the Orange Order could spark an outburst of sectarian disruption.

The Provincial Grand Black Chapter of Scotland wants to hold a public procession through the town - which will feature 3,000 of its members.

But community representatives say the Chapter is not welcome in the town.

The proposed route of the Protestant marchers passes through the centre of Dumbarton, will go past a Celtic supporters club and near a Catholic Church in the town.

There would be 37 accordion, flute and drum bands descending on the town from all over Scotland and Northern Ireland and it would be the largest such gathering in recent memory, if not in the town"s history.

The Chapter is adamant that residents have 'nothing to fear' about the planned procession.

But Sheila Urquhart, secretary of Dumbarton East and Central Community Council, revealed that the association will lodge its objection with the council.

She told the Reporter: 'We are totally against this or any other procession taking place in Dumbarton.

'We will be making an official objection on the grounds that there will be serious disruption to traffic and pedestrians, the potential of anti-social behaviour by the participants and the risk of inciting disorderly behaviour by opposing groups.

'Additionally, the cost of policing such an event cannot be justified. Our view is that sectarian marches have no place in twenty-first century Scotland.'

A special meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council"s (WDC"s) Licensing Committee will be called to decide on the application for the parade, which would take place at 12.15pm on August 8.