TUV Leader Criticises PSNI Attitude Towards Terror Flags in Rasharkin
14 May 2012
Statement by North Antrim MLA Jim Allister:
“The last few years have seen a litany of sectarian attacks upon the Unionist community in Rasharkin. These have amounted to nothing less than a campaign to ethically cleanse the village of its minority community. In recent months the village has seen a bandsman subjected to abuse relating to his father who was murdered by the IRA, the burning of a Protestant man’s car and a number of attacks upon Rasharkin Orange Hall.
“One expects the powers that be to stand up and protect a community which finds itself under attack.
“I am therefore deeply disappointed that PSNI have declined to remove flags which are clearly associated with Republican terrorism from display in the village. Not only that but they seem reluctant to admit that a problem even exists.
“I received a number of complaints from constituents about “Starry Plough” and “Sunburst” flags in Rasharkin.
“The Starry Plough originated in the run-up to the 1916 Rising and was flown by the rebels. The flag has also been associated with the INLA for many years.
“The “Sunburst” flag has also been associated with Republican terrorism since its inception in the early days of the 20th century. Currently it is the flag of the IRA’s youth wing.
“However, in responding to me Chief Superintendent Nobel ignored these facts and instead claimed “These flags cannot be said to be exclusively associated with any proscribed organisation”.
“This assertion would be laughable were the issues involved not so serious. Everyone knows the clear links with terrorism which these flags have in the public consciousness. They are being used to intimidate the minority community in Rasharkin and should be removed forthwith.”
