Sir, – The present flags disturbances in Northern Ireland, originated with a cynical proposal in Belfast City Hall and was brought to a head by loyalist street protests, largely encouraged by the DUP. Yet,last week, on the arrival of Hilary Clinton in Belfast, Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness assured Mrs Clinton and the rest of the world that they would work together to ensure peace and progress in Northern Ireland.
In Stormont and in almost every council chamber in Northern Ireland, the DUP and Sinn Féin, together, enjoy an overall majority. Surely, if we are to believe Mr Robinson and Mr McGuinness this matter should be resolved by decisive and courageous leadership from the First and Deputy First Minister rather than simply scapegoating the Alliance Party and allowing the issue to fester and divide,at great cost to the people of Northern Ireland? – Yours, etc,
Sir, – Chris Coggins (December 12th) suggests designing a new Northern Ireland flag that excludes the colours red, white, blue, green and gold. Presumably he would be happy with an all-orange one so? – Yours, etc,