The Orange Order has announced its intention to formally engage with incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham to outline its vision for the future of Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom. Grand Secretary Rev. Mervyn Gibson confirmed the move during a Twelfth of July demonstration in Kilrea, signaling a shift in the organization’s approach toward the central government in London.
Rev. Gibson expressed significant dissatisfaction with the current administration, specifically criticizing the performance of the incumbent Secretary of State, Hilary Benn. Describing Benn as “inactive and aloof,” the Grand Secretary stated that hopes for constructive dialogue under the current leadership had been “dashed.”
The organization’s strategy focuses on bypassing current local frustrations to establish a direct line to the incoming premiership. Rev. Gibson noted that while the Union faces ongoing challenges—citing the presence of three nationalist leaders in devolved administrations—the solution must move beyond the rhetoric of blaming the UK government. “We deserve mature and sustainable solutions, we deserve politics which works,” Gibson told attendees.
The Orange Order leadership expressed cautious optimism regarding the transition, noting that Burnham’s background as a regional leader in Manchester may provide a more receptive ear to Northern Ireland’s concerns than the current Downing Street approach. Andy Burnham is scheduled to assume the office of Prime Minister next Monday, following the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer.