Warning over Christmas flag protests
First Minister Peter Robinson has warned of the possible damage flag protests could have on business if they are held in the run up to Christmas.
Last year protests against a Belfast City Council decision to restrict the flying of the Union Flag at city hall devastated local businesses.
The CBI said weeks of demonstrations and rioting cost traders around £15m in lost business.
First Minister Peter Robinson said loyalists were proposing to stage more protests in the run up to Christmas.
He said: “I have heard of some proposals to hold protests leading up to the Christmas period.
“I hope people will reflect on the damage that would cause to Northern Ireland and to traders in Belfast, potentially leading to a loss of jobs.”
Loyalists reacted angrily after Belfast City Council passed a motion to restrict the number of days it flies the Union Flag at city hall.
On the night of the controversial vote loyalist protestors managed to break into Belfast City Hall.
Dozens of police officers were injured during rioting which was linked to some of the protests.
Since the decision last December, tensions in the loyalist community have remained high.
