Anna Henry: “We stand with those left behind” on Orange Victims Day

TUV Bannside Councillor Anna Henry

A Mid and East Antrim councillor has paid tribute to members of the Orange Order who lost their lives during the Troubles, marking Orange Victims Day at the start of this week’s council meeting.

Speaking at the opening of Monday’s council business, TUV Bannside Councillor Anna Henry reflected on the occasion, which coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Tullyvallen Orange Hall attack in South Armagh.

“Fifty years ago tonight IRA gunmen attacked Tullyvallen Orange Hall in South Armagh. Five men were murdered that evening,” Cllr Henry said.

“It is appropriate therefore that across Northern Ireland there will be events tonight to mark Orange Victims Day — a time when the 344 members of the institution who lost their lives during the years of terrorism — nearly 10% of all those who were killed — are recalled. The youngest was just 18 years old; the eldest was 86.”

Cllr Henry noted that many of those remembered had served in the Ulster Defence Regiment, the Royal Ulster Constabulary, and other branches of the armed forces or prison service.

“Their commitment to protecting our communities deserves our deepest respect and gratitude,” she continued.

She also paid tribute to the families of the victims, highlighting the long-lasting impact of their loss.

“We also honour the families they left behind. More than 600 children were bereaved through the loss of a parent, and many hundreds more have carried lasting physical, mental, and emotional injuries as a direct consequence of the terrorist campaign.

“Some were targeted because of their service; others because of their faith or community.

“As the Orange family pauses to remember those innocent men and women, we as a council should make clear that we stand with those left behind, and we acknowledge the ongoing suffering — whether physical or psychological — that so many continue to endure.”

Orange Victims Day is observed annually on 1 September, remembering the members of the Orange Institution who lost their lives during Northern Ireland’s conflict.