Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party Mike Nesbitt MLA and First Minister Rt Hon Peter Robinson MLA have this afternoon met with a number of groups within the Unionist and Loyalist community to discuss matters of concern surrounding the removal of the Union flag from Belfast City Hall and associated issues of concern within the community.
Today’s meetings are part of a wider process of consultation and engagement and were a useful opportunity to discuss how we can move beyond protests and work together in a more co-ordinated fashion to a longer-term strategic approach. Further meetings and discussions are due in the coming days and while understanding the frustration and anger being expressed it is important that energies are channelled through conversations within the political process.
We have discussed a number of possible options with the groups we have met today and we intend to urgently reflect on and develop the proposals.