16 June 2025

SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has welcomed new provisions which will grant the PSNI powers to remove illegal items such as flags and banners from public spaces.

The measures are included in the Crime and Policing Bill currently progressing through Westminster. The South Belfast and Mid Down MP has campaigned for action on paramilitary flags and emblems for over a decade.

She has been actively engaging with the Home Secretary and PSNI to ensure these powers can be effectively implemented to remove the display of paramilitary flags and banners in communities across Northern Ireland.

Speaking ahead of the debate on the legislation in Westminster on Tuesday, Ms Hanna said:

“I welcome the long-overdue legislative steps that I hope will empower the PSNI to be able to remove illegal flags and banners from our communities. For too long, these symbols have been used to intimidate people and mark territory, creating fear and tension.

“This is one of the most common issues raised with me by constituents. These displays are unwelcome in our neighbourhoods, where they undermine community relations, contribute to division and damage community confidence in our ability to deal with the scourge of paramilitaries.

“Like many challenges in Northern Ireland, the issue of illegal flags was too often placed in the ‘too difficult’ pile. I regret that the Executive has failed to address this issue or to implement recommendations from the Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition (FICT) Commission.

“I now urge the Executive to ensure the PSNI are supported to resource and implement these new powers to ensure they are used effectively.”