Sir, - So the Rev Martin Smyth, Grand Master of Loyal Orange Lodge of Ireland predicts that orangemen may have to break the law to defend their "inalienable" right to march and celebrate their heritage. Surely loyalists being loyal subjects should begin by obeying and showing some loyalty to the laws of the state. Such remarks coming as they do from the MP for South Belfast (whose constituents include the Lower Ormeau residents) are utterly contemptible and could be responsible for inciting breaches in public order. Mr Smyth should be informed that nobody's rights are inalienate and where rights conflict, invariably some compromise must be reached. Being a subject or citizen entitles one to rights but these rights must be exercised in tandem with one's obligations to uphold the law and respect the rights of others.
Yours, etc.,
Harold's Cross Road,
Dublin 6W.