Hate crime probe follows shop's 'fenian flag'

Police have launched a hate crime investigation after an east Belfast shop advertised Irish tricolours to burn on 11th night bonfires.

The Irish News revealed on Wednesday that the Union Jack Souvenir Shop on the Newtownards Road was selling ‘Fenian flags to burn’, pictured, for £5 in the run-up to the Twelfth of July celebrations.

Police have now launched an investigation under hate crime legislation after receiving a complaint about the sale of the flags from a member of the public.

It is understood the flags are no longer for sale.

“Police are investigating the display of flags for sale at a shop in east Belfast,” a police spokeswoman said.

“Anything which suggests behaviour likely to lead to breech of the peace will be dealt with accordingly.

“Police are firmly committed to addressing the issues of flags and work proactively with partner agencies and local communities to tackle the issue.

“The police independently and unilaterally act to remove flags when it has been determined that the display of a flag is such to justify enforcement without consultation and negotiation.

“The display of flags to mark out geographical areas of control or to promote sectarianism or intimidation is wholly unacceptable in a peaceful and tolerant society, and the police service is clear in its responsibility to work with communities to find acceptable solutions and enforce the law.

“It is incumbent on everyone to keep working to ensure that people can live without fear or intimidation, which is a fundamental human right.”