Lyttle calls for an end to tit for tat game over flags

Alliance OFMDFM spokesperson Chris Lyttle MLA has said that there must be an end to the tit for tat game over flags. His comments follow a proliferation of the flying of both the Union Flag and Irish Tri-colour, and the decision by Finance Minister Sammy Wilson to erect new flagpoles at five of his Departmental buildings.

Chris Lyttle MLA said: “Alliance believes that we must put an end to the tit for tat game around flags. We believe in flying flags in a way that inspires maximum respect and dignity around important symbols of belonging and identity. That is why we proposed the designated days solution in Belfast, a proposal that we believe should be the policy of all Councils.

“Is the Finance Minister’s decision a DUP recognition that a policy of time bound display is the only sustainable solution or is it further political games with scarce resources and identity?

“Alliance calls on political leaders to reach a joint arrangement on flags and emblems across Northern Ireland rather than tit for tat provocation.

“Our fragile economy and our shared future demand nothing less.”

ENDS