The first major loyal orders parade of the marching season is expected to pass off peacefully in Belfast tomorrow night, sources in the area have said.
The "Tour of the North" parade begins at Carlisle Circus in the city, the starting point for the annual Twelfth demonstrations, and takes in the city centre before moving through north Belfast past what have been previous sectarian flashpoints.
Tomorrow's march will pass Ardoyne, the scene of serious rioting in 2005 at a series of loyalist marches.
The Irish Times understands that a series of meetings between representatives of both nationalist residents and the North and West Belfast Parades Forum, an umbrella group which includes the loyal orders, unionist parties, clergy and others have taken place. One reliable source said last night that no one in the area wants any problems.
It is understood that the parade could be marshalled by members of the unionist community, while nationalist residents will help keep order near the Ardoyne flashpoint.
It is further understood that a small nationalist protest will be mounted and that this has been the subject of discussions between the two sides and involving the PSNI.
The Irish Times was told that the mood locally was "better than in 2005" and there was general acceptance that no position was advanced by two groups stoning each other. A statement issued in the names of the main loyal orders has also been issued appealing for order throughout the rest of the summer.
The Loyal Orange Institution, the Royal Black Institution, the Independent Loyal Orange Institution, the Royal Arch Purple Order, the Apprentice Boys of Derry, the Ulster Bands Association and the 36th Regimental Bands Association said last night they wanted to promote the coming parades as "inclusive and for the enjoyment of all our citizens".
In a direct appeal for loyalist supporters of parades to avoid drunkenness, the statement added: "We appeal to all those who come to watch our parades to act responsibly and respectfully during this year's events and in particular to obey local council bylaws in relation to alcohol consumption." It said the orders recognised that "irresponsible drinking is an increasing problem surrounding festivals and major public events" and that alcohol abuse "is discouraging some families from attending and enjoying our parades".