Politics

Not playing British national anthem 'a positive step', says SDLP's Alban Maginness

Martin McGuinness attended the Stormont remembrance ceremony where God Save the Queen was unexpectedly sung
Martin McGuinness attended the Stormont remembrance ceremony where God Save the Queen was unexpectedly sung Martin McGuinness attended the Stormont remembrance ceremony where God Save the Queen was unexpectedly sung

AN SDLP politician who attended Wednesday's act of remembrance at Stormont has warned that efforts to include the British national anthem could jeopardise nationalists taking part in future.

The ceremony in Parliament Building's Great Hall ended controversially when TUV press officer Sammy Morrison began singing God Save the Queen.

The anthem was not included in the running order and the Royal British Legion has since indicated that it does not traditionally form part of acts of remembrance.

Wednesday's event, which was designed to be inclusive, was the second time MLAs have marked Armistice Day in the Great Hall.

Up until last year, a remembrance service had been held in Stormont's Senate chamber and featured hymns and the British national anthem.

Mr Morrison was joined in singing God Save the Queen by a number of DUP MLAs but immediately afterwards Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt apologised to Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and culture minister Carál Ní Chuilín for what he described as a "stunt".

Later Mr Nesbitt said he believed the British anthem should feature in the annual ceremony but that participants should be informed beforehand.

"As we work our way through this challenging decade of centenaries, we should ensure there are no surprises for any participants," the UUP leader said.

"This was the worst outcome for both unionists and nationalists – I want the national anthem back on the order of service for everyone to see."

But North Belfast MLA Alban Maginness, who took part in the act of remembrance, said including God Save the Queen would discourage nationalists from taking part.

"Omitting the British national anthem from the order of service at the Stormont remembrance event seemed to be a positive step and should again be considered at future events," he said.

"We cannot allow reconciliation to be jeopardised by the narrow actions of some within unionist parties."