THE Orange Order says it has "no problem" with organisers of The Open golf championship issuing guidance to workers about bonfires and parades.
Workers were warned of potential bonfire "disorder" and a "risk of disruption" from Orange parades in a memo seen by The Irish News.
Organisers also advised personnel to "avoid displaying football colours" and "be sensitive to any conversations in public regarding Northern Ireland politics or the Troubles".
The guidance was issued some weeks ahead of The 148th Open Championship, which is taking place at Royal Portrush Golf Club in Co Antrim from July 14-21.
The single-page 'Message to all Contractors and Service Providers' said Eleventh Night bonfires "have previously led to a degree of disorder".
"In these areas, there will be increased police resources and your travel movement may be affected," it added.
"In addition to the increase in traffic on the roads, there is a risk of disruption in towns and cities where parades are taking place, particularly where there are counter-demonstrations."
The memo also contained details about May's North West 200, describing it and 'Orangefest' as the "two notable annual events affecting our construction works at Royal Portrush".
With many visitors expected to arrive before The Open tees off, the Orange Order has been encouraging golf fans to "enjoy the Orange.. and the greens" by attending its annual parades.
Iain Carlisle, chief executive of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, said he had "no problem" with the guidance.
"I think it's a responsibility thing. I don't think it's derogatory," he said.
Mr Carlisle said it was reasonable for organisers to inform workers, such as those coming from other parts of the world, of events happening around the same time as The Open.
"They're trying to be factual and just make their workers aware that there are other major events happening at the same time," he said.
"I don't think they're trying to flag up any particular dangers to people – it's just an awareness thing."
A spokesman for The R&A, organisers of The Open, said: "We give guidance to our contractors each year to assist them in going about their duties and to make them aware of any other events taking place in the area."
