A Sinn Féin Councillor has branded the erection of loyalist paramilitary and Israeli flags in Markethill as a “political statement in support of brutal occupation, displacement and mass killing”.
Upon learning of the flags’ appearance in the town, Sinn Féin Councillor Bróna Haughey called the erection of UVF and YCV flags in Markethill a “blatant display of bigoted sectarianism” and has called for their immediate removal.
Said the Councillor: “The appearance of UVF and YCV flags in Markethill is deeply concerning and entirely unacceptable. These are flags of illegal and proscribed paramilitary organisations.
“Their display in a public space is not cultural, it is an act of intimidation designed to send a message of exclusion.”
The elected representative also criticised the flying of Israeli flags in the town.
Cllr Haughey said: “It is deeply provocative to see Israeli flags erected in Markethill at a time when the world is witnessing the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people by the Israeli war machine.
“These flags are a political statement in support of brutal occupation, displacement, and mass killing. Their presence, alongside loyalist paramilitary flags, compounds the message of intimidation and deepens division within the community.”
Cllr Haughey said the impact on residents, workers, and visitors to the town cannot be overstated: “People who live and work in Markethill should not be forced to walk past sectarian and militaristic displays.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe and respected, regardless of their background or beliefs.”
Concluding the Sinn Féin Councillor called on the PSNI and local civic leaders to act.
She said: “The PSNI and community leaders must show leadership and ensure these flags are removed immediately. Public spaces cannot be used to glorify paramilitaries or project fear.
“Sinn Féin will continue to stand up for inclusive, shared communities, free from sectarianism, hatred and intimidation”.
