Parades Northern Ireland - Rural Caseworker

Background

The Parades Commission was established under the Public Processions (NI) Act 1998. Its duties are:
1) Promote greater understanding by the public of issues concerning public processions;
2) Promote and facilitate mediation to resolve disputes concerning public processions;
3) Keep itself generally informed of the conduct of public processions and protest meetings;
4) Review and make recommendations to the Secretary of State concerning the operation of the Act.

A Caseworker will assist the Commission in decision making, providing advice and guidance, and engaging stakeholders. The role reports directly to the Deputy Secretary and the Secretary and is part of a small secretariat team.

• Establish and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including parade/protest organisers, PSNI, local political representatives, residents groups, church representatives, PUL and CRN community reps, members of the public, etc.
• Build an extensive knowledge of parading in Northern Ireland and conduct research on parading in other jurisdictions.
• Deal with sensitive and contentious parades, gather additional information, arrange oral/written representation from stakeholders, draft determinations and correspondence following Commission decisions, advise organisers of outcomes and handle enquiries and complaints.
• Prepare detailed briefs for the Commission on sensitive parades and present information verbally and in written report form at formal meetings.

• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage a range of stakeholders
• Integrity, impartiality and sensitivity
• Local political awareness
• CTC clearance (or willingness to undergo CTC clearance)
• Access to a form of transport for work-related travel

• Experience supporting relationships with organisations in a group structure
• Experience supporting senior decision makers
• Experience working independently to deadlines
• Experience analysing information and producing concise briefings and reports

• Use evidence and knowledge to support accurate, expert decisions and advice, considering alternative options, implications and risks.
• Communicate purpose and direction with clarity, integrity and enthusiasm, respecting the needs, responses and opinions of others.
• Form effective partnerships and relationships with people internally and externally from diverse backgrounds.
• Deliver timely and quality results with focus and drive.

Hybrid working arrangements are offered. Normal office hours are 9am‑5pm, but additional hours may be required, especially during the main parading period of June‑August. Restrictions on annual leave apply during busy periods.

Annual leave: 25 days on appointment, increasing to 30 days after 5 years of service. Additional paid time off for public holidays and one privilege day.

Pension:
Choice of Civil Service pension schemes.

Training:
Extensive range of training and development opportunities.

All applications for employment are considered strictly on the basis of merit.

Monday 9th March 2026, 23:55 hours.