Royal Irish Regiment Parade

There was a lot of controversy here not too long ago over a homecoming parade for the Royal Irish Regiment. They are part of the British Army based here in Belfast and have just come back from the Middle East. There was a counter-march at the same time as this parade, but I wanted to see the parade so I missed the counter-march.  In these pics you'll see the guys marching in past City Hall.  It was one of the shortest marches I have ever seen.  They were not allowed to march armed or have a fly-over like they had intended.  They weren't allowed to do this because it would be viewed as a threat and a show if military strength by Nationalist and Republican groups.  Some of the people I know from Uni were at the counter-march, and said there were a few times where it could have "kicked-off" but for the most part it stayed under control.  After the parades were done, town was dead.  Everyone left, so I did some Christmas shopping. :)