AQW 14654/22-27

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 09/09/2024
Answered On Date: 24/09/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any steps he is taking to meet Recommendation 15 in Chapter 10 of the Hate Crime Review, issued by Judge Desmond Marrinan, concerning the removal of expressions of hate.

Answer:

The issue of unauthorised flags on Departmental property is a sensitive one and has been ongoing for many years. My Department’s primary consideration is the safety of road users and where unauthorised flags or attachments pose a risk to road users, my Department will seek to remove that hazard. Where there is no such danger, my Department will liaise closely with other key stakeholders and seek to provide a solution.

Finding a sustainable solution to the ongoing problem of illegally erected flags and emblems requires leadership and a united approach. Until such times as a comprehensive approach can be developed, my Department will continue to apply its current processes. I will continue to engage with my Executive colleagues on this issue.