In a decisive move that signals a significant shift in local policy, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has voted to remove the Union flag from all of its buildings entirely.
The resolution, passed by a majority of councillors, means the flag will no longer be flown on any occasion, including designated days. This concludes a long-standing and often contentious debate within the district.
A New Direction for the Council
The motion was brought forward by Sinn Féin and the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP). It received cross-community support, marking a departure from previous practices. Councillors voted 23 to 15 in favour of the new policy, which will take effect immediately.
Proponents of the change argued that the previous policy, which saw the flag flown on 18 designated days, was not inclusive and failed to represent the entire community in a district with a nationalist majority.
Mixed Reactions Reflect Community Divide
The decision has been met with starkly contrasting reactions, underscoring the deep-seated political and cultural divisions in the region.
Sinn Féin councillor Sheamus Greene hailed the outcome as "a positive step forward" that creates "a neutral space for everyone." He stated the move reflects the council's desire to be welcoming and inclusive of all cultural identities.
Conversely, the decision has dismayed unionist representatives. Councillor Paul Robinson of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) called it a "retrograde step" and a "deliberate attempt to erase the identity of the community who wish to maintain the link with the United Kingdom." The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) also expressed its profound disappointment with the result.
The move by Fermanagh and Omagh is seen as part of a wider trend in several councils across Northern Ireland where flag-flying policies have been reviewed and amended in recent years.
