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Translink 'still in discussions' over UVF flag on rail signal box

A UVF flag on a signal box near Jordanstown. Picture by Mal McCann
A UVF flag on a signal box near Jordanstown. Picture by Mal McCann A UVF flag on a signal box near Jordanstown. Picture by Mal McCann

TRANSLINK has said it is "still in discussions with community representatives" about removing a loyalist paramilitary flag placed on a railway signal light.

The UVF flag has been erected on a signal box on the main line between Belfast and Derry near the predominantly loyalist Monkstown estate in Newtownabbey.

An MLA has called for the flag to be urgently removed amid rail staff fears that it could obstruct the signal and place train drivers and passengers at risk.

Northern Ireland Railways operator Translink told The Irish News on Thursday it was "speaking to local community representatives regarding its removal".

Translink had hoped the flag near Jordanstown would be removed overnight.

However, the firm last night said: "We are still in discussions with community representatives."

The PSNI had said it was not asked to remove the flag and Northern Ireland Railways was dealing with the matter.

SDLP East Derry MLA John Dallat called for the loyalist paramilitary flag to be urgently removed.

"I was appalled to learn that a UVF flag has been erected on a signal light on the main Belfast to Derry railway line near the Monkstown estate." he said.

"This is not the first time that paramilitary flags have been placed along the route but past experience has shown that there is an unacceptable reluctance to remove these grossly offensive and illegal flags.

"People here just want to live in peace and without the threat of paramilitary thugs. It's important that the issue is resolved urgently and the flag removed as soon as possible."