Minister refutes statements

In relation to the article in the Lurgan Mail (July 8), I wish to clarify and refute a number of statements made by Dolores Kelly.

The problem of flag flying and painting of kerbstones, is widespread across the North. It often leads to complaints from the public or elected representatives, particularly when the flag flying or painting is on main routes used by all of the community.

The Department is not legally charged with the powers to remove flags as claimed - Roads Service carries out its role within the powers and resources available to it and in compliance with any agreements or protocols, such as, the multi-agency protocol for flags in public places. This protocol aims to provide a pro-active approach, with the support of communities and their representatives, to address the removal of flags from arterial routes and town centres and from particular locations, such as interface areas, or near schools, hospitals and churches.

The protocol recognises that an effective resolution to the flags issue is more likely to be achieved through the co-operation of local communities. Under the protocol, the Agency that is in the most effective position to consult, negotiate or resolve the situation, will take the lead. Roads Service will, when called upon by the lead agency, provide the access equipment and resources to remove unwanted flags, once agreement has been reached that they should be taken down.

Roads Service will continue to be involved in OFMDFM's review of the Flags Protocol and also continue to assist other agencies and communities to deal with flags and graffiti to best promote good relations.

I should stress that I have made my view clear, that the current procedures are outdated and need to be reviewed by all partner Agencies and Departments.

Roads Service has already responded positively to help communities deal with flags, where there is near unanimous local support for action within a community, and where the police are content that a Public Order issue will not arise.