If there is to be a peaceful resolution to the loyalist feud, it is almost certain that the retired Presbyterian minister, the Rev Roy Magee, will be a key player.
He was made a Member of the British Empire in 1996 in recognition of his efforts to help broker the loyalist ceasefires in 1994. Since then Mr Magee has operated as a mediator behind the scenes of paramilitary feuds and countless contentious parades.
He was mooted as a future moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and was nominated for election in 1995.
Mr Magee was one of the founder members of the Parades Commission in 1997, but left his post after just eight months.
At the time it was understood that he was uncomfortable being involved in wielding the body's wide-ranging powers which include often having to ban marches. He was said to prefer to mediate behind the scenes but rejoined the commission in February this year.
Although he often works in secret, Mr Magee still feels free to comment on pressing issues.
In 1996 he told The Irish Times that "clandestine" elements, some of them "business-type" unionists, wanted to destabilise the peace process and provoke loyalist paramilitaries into resuming violence.
Although approaches have been made to leaders of both warring organisations, it is understood both have refused the offer for the time being. Speaking yesterday, Mr Magee said he was ready to do whatever he could to end the violence.
"The loyalist paramilitaries know that I would be willing to do anything I could to stop bloodshed and violence," he said.
"The problem at the moment is that no one seems to be listening. They are too hurt, they have lost their friends and close colleagues so they are a bit hurt and not paying much attention to what anyone is saying at the present time."