Mr Begley said nationalist councillors had already made a gesture to unionists by agreeing to move the date of the parade to Monday, because St Patrick's Day had fallen on a Sunday.

BBC: St Patrick's Day parade in Omagh

Mr Justice Coghlin heard submissions at the High Court on behalf of families opposed to the route of the St Patrick's Day parade before dismissing the application.

BBC: Challenge to Kilkeel parade dismissed

The west Belfast based Feile an Phobail (People's Festival) has been the driving force behind the organisation of Belfast's St Patrick's Day parade since 1997.

BBC: News | Northern Ireland | Rivals plan separate St Patrick's Day parades

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have attended a St Patrick's Day parade at a military barracks.

BBC: Duchess of Cambridge hands out shamrocks to soldiers

During a parade last month, loyalist bands played music outside St Patrick's Church in defiance of a ruling by the Parades Commission.

BBC: North Belfast riots: Robinson and McGuinness meet Baggott

Mr Thompson said the purpose of introducing a new parade route was to encourage unionists communities to participate in the St Patrick's celebrations.

BBC: St Patrick's Day parade in Omagh

During a Royal Black Institution parade last month, loyalist bands played music outside St Patrick's Church in defiance of a ruling by the Parades Commission.

BBC: Orange Order holding parade talks

Patrick's Day parade in a city where Irish roots are a particular point of pride for many voters.

WSJ: Next Mayor May Miss 2014 St. Patrick's Day Parade