Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Trade and Diaspora, Seán Crowe TD, has condemned the burning of an Irish tricolour in Liverpool and called for an investigation into the incident which was caught on video.

Deputy Crowe said:

“I have watched the video of the burning of the Irish tricolour in Liverpool, and read reports that suggest it happened on the grounds of an Orange Order Hall.

“I find this action very offensive and hate filled, and one which will achieve nothing, except fuel sectarian tensions and hate.

“On July 20th the James Larkin Society of Liverpool will be holding a march and rally to remember the 100th Anniversary of the Dublin strike and lockout. Unfortunately previous marches by the James Larkin Society have been attacked by fascist and racist anti-Irish protesters.

“I hope that this incident will not inflame tensions ahead of this peaceful and commemorative march.

“I know the incident has already been reported to the Merseyside Police, and I will monitor their investigations, but I would also encourage the Orange Order to investigate this case. They need to establish whether it happened on their grounds and if any of their members were involved.

“If members of the Orange Order were involved, the Orange Order need to immediately distance themselves from this action, and sanction any members who may have partaken in this disgraceful and hate filled behaviour.

“I have also submitted a Parliamentary Question on this issue, to be answered by the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in the Dáil on Wednesday.”

ENDS