Clarke asks why DUP and Sinn Fein have changed their position on designated days

Alliance Councillor Patrick Clarke has said the DUP and Sinn Fein must clarify their position on the Union Flag, after a DUP proposed motion to fly the Union Flag at Down District Council on designated days was defeated when Sinn Fein failed to support it.

The Alliance Councillor said the DUP must clarify its support for designated days across Northern Ireland, while Sinn Fein must explain why it voted for the flag to fly on designated days in Belfast, yet has failed to support similar moves elsewhere.

Councillor Patrick Clarke said: “I welcome the fact the DUP has supported the Alliance Party’s policy for designated days, but they must clarify what has changed. Why did they propose this motion at Down Council when they were so against it in Belfast?

“Likewise Sinn Fein must explain why it is supportive of the Union Flag flying on designated days in Belfast, but when it comes to a Council area where they hold the majority of power they are reluctant to fully support the policy.

“Both the DUP and Sinn Fein must make its views clear – do they support a policy of designated days across Northern Ireland? There can be no room for ambiguity. Both must acknowledge what has been a long standing Alliance Party policy.

“The Alliance Party believes that the Union Flag should always be flown with dignity and respect. Designated Days is the best way forward to achieve this and is the only solution as we seek to build a shared future in our divided society.”

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