Councillor says "National flag should be treated with respect"

Newry City Councillor Charlie Casey has appealed for any individuals or groups who had erected flags and emblems prior to the Easter Rising anniversary to remove them as many were now in tatters and were disrespectful.

The councillor confirmed that all flags erected for the recent Easter Rising Commemorations in Newry City by his Party, had been taken down as per his Party agreed protocols.

Cllr Casey commented "Our activists here in Newry City   practice a policy of taking down any flags or emblems we erect for Anniversaries or Commemorations important to the Republican community within a reasonable timescale.

"This  shows a willingness to respect the right of all citizens  to celebrate one’s culture and identity in an acceptable manner, while recognising and respecting the differing perceptions of others."

Cllr Casey added "Sinn Féin believe that our national flag should be treated with respect and should not be used to mark territory or to antagonise anyone. I would appeal to those others who erected flags and emblems prior to the Easter Rising Commemorations to remove them also, as the deteriorating condition of them, with many in tatters, is viewed by most Republicans as deeply disrespectful"