Flags issue continues to divide says reader

SIR, Just as I said in the 'Times' a few weeks ago the issue of flags would continue to divide the people of Ballybogey.
By The Newsroom
Published 31st May 2010, 13:23 BST
Updated 31st May 2010, 13:52 BST

I’m beginning to wonder is it about flags or is it about Peace 3 funding.

A lot of communities in loyalist areas have had the ‘Carrot ‘ of Peace 3 funding waved in front of them, and it would seem that it’s being used to dilute or dissolve Loyalist and Unionist traditions. For one I call it ‘ appeasement money ‘ not peace money.

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Years ago when I was a young boy the slogan was “ Ulster is not for sale “ well now it appears at a local level it may read now “ Ballybogey is not for sale. “

Traditions are a valuable common denominator in both Loyalist and Republican communities here in Northern Ireland.

For goodness sake why can’t we all leave well alone? Let us all enjoy our culture and enjoy our festivals and fly our flags in peace and quiet on both sides.

Recently I have had the honour of looking at the wall plaques in Benvardin Orange Hall, and no matter what side of the community you come from you couldn’t help but be amazed at the history displayed on the inner walls of this building dating back to the early 1900’s.

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Are we to forget these people, their beliefs and their traditions, the people who made the community that is Ballybogey? .

In closing I say to all the people in Ballybogey respect your neighbour and enjoy your festival in peace, after all it’s your history and you continue to make it.

Yours etc.,

Steve Phillips

Related topics:Ulster