Far-Right Groups Protest Council’s Removal of National Flags
Cork: Tensions flared in Cork city centre on Saturday as far-right groups staged a protest against Cork City Council’s decision to remove national flags that had been erected across the city by anti-immigration activists. Gardaí maintained a heavy presence amid fears of confrontation between demonstrators.
Over the past two days, the council has been taking down tricolour flags placed in public areas without authorisation. The move has sparked backlash from far-right groups, who claim the flags were displayed as a sign of patriotism.
More than 250 protesters gathered at Grand Parade, with several participants wearing black face masks and waving the Irish tricolour. The demonstration coincided with the weekly pro-Palestinian march, which drew around 1,000 participants, leading to tense scenes in the city centre.
Gardaí established cordons and deployed additional units to prevent direct clashes between the two groups. Pro-Palestinian marchers moved toward Grand Parade, while far-right protesters, led by National Party leader Justin Barrett, rallied from South Mall to the City Hall stage.
In recent months, anti-immigration activists have placed national flags on bridges, lampposts, and public buildings across Ireland, claiming it was an expression of national pride. Critics, however, argue that the campaign is rooted in anti-immigrant sentiment and attempts to politically appropriate national symbols.
Cork City Council has reiterated that unauthorised flags and banners are not permitted on public infrastructure, citing safety, planning, and public order concerns.
A government spokesperson also emphasised that strict protocols govern the respectful display of the national flag, warning that far-right groups would not be allowed to misuse or politicise the tricolour.
Officials stressed that the flag represents unity and inclusion, not division, and that Ireland’s national symbols must not be exploited to advance extremist agendas.
Irish Samachar English News
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