‘We don’t fly flags of host nations on visits’ Irish Navy

Last week the Sentinel reported how DUP MP Gregory Campbell had questioned why the White Ensign of the Royal Navy wasn’t flown as a courtesy on the Irish Offshore Patrol Vessel.

It had been visiting Londonderry for the Return of Colmcille festival.

East Londonderry MP Mr Campbell said it was customary for foreign vessels to fly the flag - comprising the Union Flag and the Cross of St George - when aside in the United Kingdom.

But a spokesperson for the Irish Navy said it was not the custom for the Irish Navy.

He told the Sentinel: “It is not the established custom for warships to fly the flag of the host nations navy when visiting another jurisdiction. Hence the white ensign was not flown.”