Celbridge Councillor Calls For Unauthorised Flags With Alleged Far-Right Links To Be Taken Down

Wednesday, 15 January 2025 12:25

By Martin Osborne

Labour cllr. Rupert Heather successfully lobbied for the removal of a so-called 'Four Provinces' flag in Celbridge after a constituent raised its alleged association with anti-asylum seeker demonstrations.

A Celbridge councillor has called for action to regulate the display of "unauthorised" flags across the county, following concerns over their alleged links to far-right protests.

Labour Cllr Rupert Heather successfully lobbied for the removal of a so-called 'Four Provinces' flag in Celbridge after a constituent raised its alleged association with anti-asylum seeker demonstrations.

Speaking to Kfm, he said: "A constituent informed me that the flag was tied to far-right protests. After investigating, I reported it, and the flag in Celbridge was removed."

The issue extends beyond Celbridge.

Similar flags have been reported in Naas, other Kildare towns, and along major roads and high streets nationwide.

To address the problem, Cllr. Heather submitted a motion urging Kildare County Council to tackle the proliferation of unauthorised flags on a county-wide scale.

However, the council has stated that the matter falls under planning regulations and that a comprehensive removal would be overly complex.

"These are not official flags," Cllr. Heather stressed.

"Ireland has authorised national symbols, and we must establish clear standards for what can and cannot be displayed."

He also raised concerns about the divisive implications of the flags, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and respect for Ireland’s recognised emblems.

"Patriotism is not the issue here. I support a patriotic Ireland, but this isn’t about pride in our nation. It’s about individuals placing symbols wherever they choose," Cllr. Heather explained. "We must embrace a broader sense of inclusion and unity."

He said Kildare County Council must "take a stand" and provide clearer guidelines to address the issue.