In the aftermath of a tense but peaceful Drumcree weekend, attention will switch to the prospect of finding a permanent solution to the dispute. At long last a consensus appears to be emerging that progress is only feasible through dialogue.
The idea that an Orange Order march along the Garvaghy Road in Portadown could be agreed by all sides before proper discussions had even got under way was always fanciful.
However, there is equally little point in waiting until the eve of Drumcree Sunday in 2004 before exploring the options which might become available.
Although suggestions that Orangemen should be given credit because they did not actually become involved in rioting at this year's Drumcree were curious, there are strong indications of a change of mood within the loyalist body.
This is a development which, if confirmed, needs to be approached in a positive and generous way by nationalists.
It has been reported that a meeting between Orange officials and nationalist residents, chaired by Tony Blair's chief of staff Jonathan Powell, could be on the cards.
Nationalist representatives, who have been given little firm information about what is proposed, need to be told now exactly what is on the agenda and when the encounter may take place.
All those who sit round the negotiating table must accept that the outcome cannot be fixed in advance.
A possible march along the Garvaghy Road should neither be ruled in or out until each group has an opportunity to hear the other side's case on a face-to-face basis.
Essentially, the Drumcree saga, which has continued for over nine years, represents a disagreement between neighbours.
If a climate of mutual respect can be established, the argument is fully capable of being resolved.
