The Ulster Unionist Party has expressed concern following the announcement that the Ulster Banner will no longer be used to represent Northern Ireland athletes at the Commonwealth Games.
A Party Spokesperson said:
“The Ulster Unionist Party has always been of the mind that the Ulster Banner has, since the 1930s, been the recognised symbol of Northern Ireland. For generations, athletes have proudly draped this flag over their shoulders when celebrating victories and bringing home silverware for our wee country.
“It is deeply regrettable that Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland has chosen to discontinue the use of the Ulster Banner for athletes representing this place. Matters relating to flags and anthems are long established by convention, and no change should have been made without clear guidance from the Northern Ireland Executive. In the absence of such guidance, the status quo should have remained.
“The irony is striking, the Commonwealth Games Chief Executive has stated that, because the Executive did not make a decision, they have taken it upon themselves to act, despite saying that this was a matter for the Executive. Decisions of this nature belong firmly in the political arena, to be considered by elected representatives, particularly within the Northern Ireland Assembly, where they form part of the ongoing process on flags, identity, culture, and tradition.”