Mocking of Pope at loyalist parade on day he died branded ‘provocative and insensitive' by politicians
Politicians have branded the mocking of Pope Francis' death at an Apprentice Boys of Derry parade in Lisburn as 'completely unacceptable'.
Footage from the annual Easter parade on Monday showed the Pride of Knockmore Flute Band playing 'No Pope of Rome'.
Lyrics to the song include: 'No, no Pope of Rome, no chapels to sadden my eyes, no nuns and no priests, no Rosary beads, every day is the 12th of July'.
The incident came just hours after 88-year-old Pope Francis died on Easter Monday.
In a social media post Alliance MLA Sorcha Eastwood said: 'It is so distressing that this happened yesterday – it is really hurtful to many across our shared community in Lagan Valley and further afield.
'It is offensive and unacceptable at any time, but particularly on the day that the Pope passed away.
'This is not behaviour that is representative of our town or indeed many of the bands participating who do not want to be associated with this sort of completely unacceptable conduct and hate.
'Lagan Valley is a shared community and we will push back against this sort of regressive intolerance.'
Alliance MLA for Lagan Valley, David Honeyford, also criticised the actions of the band members.
'It's really disappointing to hear of this provocative and insensitive behaviour yesterday. This would have been disrespectful at anytime, but is especially on the day of the Pope's passing,' he said.
'Those involved are not representative of the vast majority of people out on Monday, on what should have been a good day, and this is not representative of the Lisburn and the wider area.'
Up to 50 bands and 6,000 participants took part in the annual Apprentice Boys parade on Monday.
Several DUP politicians shared posts from the parade, though there is no suggestion they were present when the offensive song was played.
DUP MP for Upper Bann Carla Lockhart said: 'Great to see so many Apprentice Boys, bands and supporters. The atmosphere was first class with the entire route lined with thousands of people enjoying the day.
'Good to see Upper Bann well represented with a great turn out of men from right across the Banbridge, Lurgan and the Portadown area.
'As always Portadown Defenders Flute Band and Downshire Guiding Star Flute Band sounding top notch.
'A great way to spend Easter Monday.'
Education Minister Paul Givan shared an image of himself shaking hands with one of the participants at the parade.
He said: 'A fabulous day in Lisburn as we hosted the Apprentice Boys of Derry in Lisburn. A fantastic parade with thousands out showing their support.'
On Monday morning, DUP Leader Gavin Robinson MP expressed his condolences following the passing of Pope Francis.
He said: 'Pope Francis was held in deep affection by many in Northern Ireland. We extend our respectful sympathies to all those grieving his passing.
'While many within the unionist community may hold different theological views, it is important to recognise the profound respect and admiration that many of our fellow countrymen and women had for the humble caretaker who entered the priesthood and died as the head of the Roman Catholic church.
'At this moment, we acknowledge their sorrow and offer our sincere condolences."
The Pride of Knockmore Flute Band, the DUP and the Apprentice Boys of Derry have been contacted.
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