N.Ireland tensions high as Protestants march

Tensions are rising in Northern Ireland as tens of thousands of Protestants from the Orange Order brotherhood march across the British territory in an annual demonstration of communal strength.

Monday's parades in 18 cities and towns officially commemorate a 319-year-old victory by the forces of a Protestant king, William of Orange, over his Catholic rival for the British throne, James II. For decades Orange Order parades have heightened tensions and triggered violence with the Irish Catholic minority.

The build-up to this year's marching again featured sectarian attacks by extremists on both sides. Homes, churches and community halls have been vandalized and burned, but nobody has been seriously injured.