The latest twist in the saga over the actions of the Young Conway Volunteers will do little to inspire confidence in the legal process as it relates to controversial parades.
In April this year, 13 members of the flute band were convicted after playing the Famine Song as they marched in a circle outside St Patrick's Church in Donegall Street, Belfast in July 2012.
Three defendants were given suspended prison sentences with fines and binding over orders among the penalties imposed on others found guilty.
At the time, this was seen as the judicial system sending out a firm message to those who engaged in offensive or provocative behaviour in the course of a parade.
The matter was back in court on Tuesday when an appeal against the convictions was due to be heard.
However, in an unexpected move, the Public Prosecution Service confirmed it would not be opposing the band members' legal challenge because they consented to be bound over to keep the peace for two years.
It is not entirely clear why the PPS decided to take this approach which has now been presented as a significant victory by the band.
It also remains to be seen what impact this outcome will have on the behaviour of this band and others in future parades.
Overall this can be viewed as an unsatisfactory development which will reinforce the sense that when it comes to dealing with contentious parades the current legislation is not up to the task.
Meanwhile, this weekend's deeply offensive anti-refugee parade and rally by the Protestant Coalition in Belfast city centre looks set to go ahead despite widespread condemnation.
In the assembly on Tuesday, First Minister Peter Robinson criticised those opposing the arrival of Syrian refugees in Northern Ireland while the main Protestant churches have also called on the organisers to think again.
At this time of intense focus on Syria and the appalling situation facing thousands of people, we need to be showing our support.
