Robin Newton MBE MLA

Robin Newton MLA has condemned the Republican dissident organisation Eirigi for their plan to protest at the City Hall in Belfast against the flying of the Armed Forces Day Flag. Robin Newton said,

“To protest against the flying of the Armed Forces Day Flag is a bigoted act. The council shamefully decided to pander to such sentiments by only flying the flag for one day – a decision pushed through with the support of Naomi Long – instead of the five days requested by the MoD. Now it seems for some republican extremists one day is too much recognition for the brave men and women serving in Afghanistan and elsewhere throughout the world.

Many families throughout the UK, including in this part of the Kingdom who are grieving for their loved ones and nurse those injured in war, will find this protest hurtful and distressing.

It is the sacrifice and loyalty of the men and women of the armed forces down through the generations that allows Eirigi to enjoy their freedoms. What a shame it is that they choose to use them in such an offensive and insulting way.

Cities and towns throughout the UK will mark Armed Forces Day in a dignified manner. This is now an important event in the calendar and allows us to support our service men and women and show our gratitude for their courage and commitment.”