To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what action his Department will take to ensure that flags and posters placed on Departmental property are flown in line with legislation and with the Code of Practice on the Respectful Display of Flags as proposed in the final report of the Commission on Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition.

My Department does not permit the attachment of flags to its property. Article 87 of the Roads (NI) Order 1993 makes it an offence to attach unauthorised signs or advertisements to structures such as lamp posts. One of my Department’s primary considerations is the safety of the public 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.

I note the commitments to respect for different cultures and identities contained in the New Decade New Approach. Finding a sustainable solution to the ongoing problem of illegally erected flags and emblems requires leadership and a united approach. I can assure you that I am committed to working with Executive colleagues and all stakeholders to deal with this issue comprehensively.