Commission seeks 'eyes and ears'

The monitors observe parades in Northern Ireland

The Parades Commission, the body set up to make decisions on controversial marches in Northern Ireland, is seeking to recruit more people to be its eyes and ears at the events.

The commission has been advertising for more parade monitors - members of the public who attend parades and report back to the commission on what they observe.

A newspaper advert on Monday says volunteers could be expected to monitor parades "at any location thoughout Northern Ireland".

And despite the fact that the work is unpaid - monitors are reimbursed travel and out of pocket expenses - Parades Commission spokesman Brendan Mulgrew said there had already been "a fairly healthy response" to the adverts.

Mr Mulgrew said many of those who work as monitors were retired people who remained physically active.

All, he said, wanted to "make a contribution to society".

"We're always trying to replenish our numbers. The last time we did so was about two years ago" Mr Mulgrew said.

"If 10 come forward, great, if it's five that's still good."

He said the commission currently has about 20 monitors working for it.

Monitors can be asked to attend events throughout NI

They may be asked to report on specific aspects of a parade - for example if a parade has a history of going on longer that it's supposed to - but will more often provide a general report.

The Parades Commission says "the use of properly trained and briefed monitors is critical to supporting the commission in its duty to keep itself generally informed, of the conduct of public processions and protest meetings".

Before parades, police are informed of the presence of monitors at a specific location.

The monitors carry identification cards but are not publicly identifiable - they don't wear identifying armbands or any other distinguishing apparel.

Mr Mulgrew said thankfully there had never been a situation where a monitor had been threatened or harmed at an event.

"Monitoring parades can involve long hours, often at weekends, with very early starts and/or very late finishes.

"The contribution monitors make against this demanding backdrop is particularly appreciated," the commission says.