Debate contribution: Display of Flags and Emblems Bill: Second Stage

Debate contribution by Mr Paul Frew on 22 September 2026.

MLA: Mr Paul Frew
Party at the time: Democratic Unionist Party
Date: 22 September 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Private Members' Business
Heading: Display of Flags and Emblems Bill: Second Stage
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5739480

Text

I thank the Bill sponsor for her intervention. That is useful. I will close on this, because I have previously spoken at length on the issue. I worry about the Bill. I do not believe that it would do what it says on the blue pages. I believe that it would create further tension and difficulties in our communities. One does not need to have the foresight of Cathbad the druid to know that the Bill would not be good for Ulster. It would make community tensions worse, not better. It might even lead to further tension, segregation and division. That is something that we are trying to fight against, not encourage. I ask the Bill sponsor to think again about proceeding with the legislation. I mean that respectfully and honourably. I have said that I appreciate everybody's hard work on their Members' Bills. I appreciate what their Bill means to them, the work that they have to do and the hoops through which they have to jump. We, however, have a right in this place to scrutinise law and a responsibility to pass appropriate law, and I do not think that the Bill passes the test.

197 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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