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.
