Sinn Féin MLA calls for flag burning to stop as controversial bonfires lit in Derry

A Sinn Féin MLA has called for the burning of flags on bonfires to stop as hundreds gathered to watch controversial pyres being set alight.

Two controversial bonfires were lit in Derry in the Bogside and Creggan areas on Thursday night.

Bonfires on August 15 are traditionally lit by some nationalists to mark the Feast of the Assumption.

They are also lit to commemorate the introduction of internment in 1971.

Earlier this week, an image of a police Land Rover and King Charles coronation flag were among items placed on the bonfire in the Bogside.

Numerous Israel and Union Jack flags were also placed on the pyre.

Local MLA Pádraig Delargy praised the work of Féile Derry in organising a packed programme of positive community events in the Bogside, Creggan and surrounding areas as diversionary schemes.

He said the “unacceptable” burning of flags on bonfires must stop now.

“I want to commend Féile, and other community festivals, for leading the way and bringing our communities together and looking to the future through arts, sports, music, debate and culture,” said Mr Delargy.

“That is the image of the Bogside that should be projected around the world, because we have much to celebrate, and to build on in the future.

“Once again, we have seen the burning of flags on bonfires – this is unacceptable, disrespectful and there is no place for these displays anywhere in our society.

“They are in stark contrast to the positive work that is being done in the community to showcase everything that is good about Derry and its people,” he said.

One of the Israeli flags contained the names of US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu, alongside a swastika and crosshairs.

A placard with the police Land Rover has ‘RUC’ written on it, while flags of loyalist paramilitaries were also displayed.

News Catch Up: Wednesday 14 August