Year: 2004
Module: Community Relations
Variable: LOYMURAL

Below is a selection of open-ended responses that relate to the question:

'Has there been any time in the last year when you felt intimidated or threatened by loyalist murals, kerb paintings or flags?'

[…] Where I live there are no flags, there are no painted kerbs, there are no gangs who intimidate you. It's amazing to find such a place here but it shows you that it's possible. I hate to see these things as it brings anger up to the surface. The whole 'tentoy' thing is a bit 'far-fetched' and I feel it makes the place look - 'devalued'. Also murals are there as they illustrate history but when it comes to sectarian murals, that' s when the paint and brush should come out to paint over it! […]

Flags of either religion should not be flying in any area, as this only provokes a reaction from the other side or religion. Flags should be up for a certain time, for a short term.

I believe that there always will be religious differences and that the most important lesson people will have to learn is to agree to disagree. I may not always agree with goings on, e.g. a parade, but I am prepared to stand aside and let things continue. I strongly believe that no one should impose their beliefs on anyone else even though something as insignificant as flags or kerb painting.

I think all flags, kerb and wall paintings - sectarian slogans and band parades should be made illegal. I also think Northern Ireland should have its own flag and national anthem (not England's or Ireland's).

If the loyalists areas in Northern Ireland weren't so intimidating, I think community relations between Catholics and Protestants would be better.

Kerb paintings and flags all around on the 12th July, people who just are their normal selves, I don't mind.

The barriers should be broken by removing all murals, flags and painted kerbstones - of both religions.

 

 

 

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