Flag row ‘deteriorated relations’ saysMid-Ulster MLA Martin McGuinness

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness.

The deterioration in relations between nationalist and unionist politicians in Northern Ireland was sparked by a decision to limit the flying of the Union flag over Belfast City Hall, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness has said.

Marking the 20th anniversary of the IRA ceasefire, the Sinn Fein chief said Democratic Unionists and Ulster Unionists have retreated into a coalition with rejectionist unionism and loyalist paramilitaries.

Mr McGuinness said it was borne out of “anti-democratic protests” over the flag row and the refusal of unionist leaders to accept compromise and a democratic decision.

“The decision to restrict the flying the flag to designated days is, of course, a compromise position. A compromise which Sinn Fein was prepared to support,” said the Mid-Ulster MLA.

“But the unionist parties have been incapable of accepting this compromise and have railed against this democratic decision.

“And it is that failure, the failure to accept a democratic decision, the failure to work towards compromise, the rejection of dialogue and negotiations to resolve contentious issues which is now at the heart of the problems that we are facing.”

Mr McGuinness challenged unionist leaders to take initiatives similar to his handshake with the Queen and involvement in royal events to improve relations between the communities.