The Parades Commission has drawn criticism from both sides of the community on the eve of a nationalist parade in Kilkeel.
Five nationalist bands are set to march through the Co Down town tomorrow morning (Friday), but have had their route restricted after a review by the Parades Commission last week.
The commission prohibited the bands from playing music as they pass Mourne Presbyterian Church, and prohibited followers from taking the route.
On the return journey, four of the bands have been prohibited from entering Greencastle Street, while one band – Banna Fluit Naiomh Phadraig has been ordered to disperse at the entrance to the former Mourne Hospital.
Sinn Féin councillor Martin Cunningham said that he was appalled by the decisions.
"I was a bit surprised by the Parades Commission's decision, and I was also disappointed by the decision not to allow one of the bands to carry the Irish national flag," he said.
"It is a church holiday, and not about making a bold political statement, it is purely a day out for the people in the area."
However, former DUP assemblyman Jim Wells said "nationalists are given all they want".
"We had a parade recently in Downpatrick which was banned from getting into the town. There was exemplary behaviour and there was no incident of note.
"It is OK for Catholics to walk through a 90% Protestant area, yet Protestants cannot walk through Downpatrick which is around 70% Catholic."
The Parades Commission declined to comment on the matter.
