THE deadline has been extended for applications to a council funding scheme for bonfire groups amid several loyalist groups publicly refusing to take part.
Belfast City Council's 'bonfire and cultural expression' programme offers funding for related community activities if bonfires meet certain criteria, such as not burning tyres and avoiding paramilitary or offensive displays.
The deadline for applications was last Friday, but councillors have agreed to extend the applications process until Monday.
In recent weeks several loyalist bonfire groups in Belfast have said they will not take part in the funding scheme, claiming it aims to "control culture and tradition".
A Cregagh estate bonfire representative said on Facebook they could no longer be part of a programme aimed at "controlling and eradicating the culture and tradition of people in that area".
And on Twitter, the Mid Shankill bonfire group said "pan-nationalism is targeting bonfire groups as part of an ongoing cultural war intent to erode any vestige of Britishness".
Loyalist blogger Jamie Bryson also said several east Belfast bonfires would not be taking part in the scheme.
The Belfast council programme offers groups £1,250 initially, and a second award of £500 following July activities for those groups who meet the programme criteria.
In 2017, 31 groups took part in the council's bonfire programme.
A Belfast City Council spokeswoman said: "Elected members have agreed to extend the deadline for applications for Belfast City Council's bonfire and cultural expression programme. The new deadline for applications is Monday May 21.
