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 5739946

Text

That is exactly what clause 6 would do. It states:
"The Department may request assistance from the Police Service of Northern Ireland in removing a flag or emblem if the Department is of the opinion that, in removing the flag or emblem there may arise— (a) a breach of the peace, or (b) an offence under section 5."
The Bill sponsor is looking into the future and saying that, by the actions of the Department, a criminal action of breach of the peace will take place, with the Department bringing in the police to assist it in removing flags. What should happen, perhaps by way of an amendment to clause 6, is that the legislation should state that the Department may seek advice from the police on whether a flag or an emblem should come down at a specific time.
What does that tell you?

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

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