Concerns Raised After Loyalist Flags Erected In South Belfast

Concerns have been raised after loyalist flags were erected near a housing estate in south Belfast.

The flags were put up on lamp posts close to Cantrell Close and Global Crescent.

However, loyalist blogger Jamie Bryson confirmed they had been taken down on Wednesday morning.

SDLP MLA Claire Hanna tweeted: "At Cantrell Close & Global Crescent today. Paramilitary flags on Ravenhill Ave intimidatory & inexcusable. Important political reps don't mince their words here & for those talking last month about "fully supporting the rule of law", this is your chance to lead & defy the cynics."

Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw also tweeted: "It should be noted that the erection of such flags is illegal activity (of the type we were assured would no longer be tolerated).

"There can be no place for paramilitary flags of any type anywhere."

Alliance Councillor Emmet McDonough Brown said: "Shared housing schemes are rare enough in Northern Ireland, so those who live there have actively chosen to live in an area focused on integration, sharing and mutual respect. They deserve the fullest protection possible, rather than being expected to live under the constant threat of paramilitaries."

(CD/LM)