| 3.9°C Belfast

Loyalists threaten biggest flag protest in Northern Ireland

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Police clear road of debris on the lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013 Expand
Loyalist protesters on their way to Belfast City Hall Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Expand
Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 8th January 2013 - Trouble breaks out on the lower Newtownards Road this evening.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Expand
Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013. Expand
Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013 Expand
Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013 Expand
Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013 Expand
Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013 Expand
Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013 Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Monday 7th January 2013 - Trouble breaks out on the lower Newtownards Road after loyalists protested in Belfast city centre this evening as the monthly meeting of Belfast City Council takes place inside Belfast City Hall.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Expand
Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013 Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
A burned out car during disturbances which erupted in east Belfast Expand
Police on patrol during disturbances which erupted in east Belfast Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
PSNI in Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
PSNI officers in Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Sunday 6th January 2013 - A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast this evening following a loyalist protest. A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall. Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Sunday 6th January 2013 - A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast this evening following a loyalist protest.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Expand
A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast Expand
Loyalist protesters block of the Newtownards Road Belfast where shots are reported to have been fired on Saturday January 5 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist Protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013. Ongoing protests and demonstrations continue at the removal of the Union flag from the city hall. The protest was largley peacfull with only minor skermishes.Picture Mark McCormick. Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards after a Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall Expand
Willie Frazer at loyalist protests near Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
Willie Frazer talks to Sara Girvin as loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013 Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
SNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall. Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards t Expand
Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards Expand
PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards road, Belfast January 5 2013 Expand
Castlereagh Street area of east Belfast following loyalist rioting January 3 2013 Expand
Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013 Expand
Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013 Expand
Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013 Expand
A burning barricade on the Newtownards road area of Belfast, where police have been targeted by rioters Expand
Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013 Expand
Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013 Expand
Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013 Expand
Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013 Expand
Carrickfergus flag protest. January 2, 2013 Expand
Carrickfergus Flag Protest, January 2 2013. Expand
Loyalists across Northern Ireland have been protesting since councillors in Belfast voted to limit the number of days they fly the Union flag Expand
Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012 Expand
Jackie McDonald has warned that loyalist protests cannot succeed in having the Union flag reinstated above Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012 Expand
Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012 Expand
Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012 Expand
Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012 Expand
Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012 Expand
Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012 Expand
Expand
Loyalists block the Sandy Row area of Belfast as part of a mass protest over flags Expand
Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt and First Minister Peter Robinson were among those holding talks about the Union flag dispute in Belfast Expand
Loyalists protesting around the village area in south Belfast December 17 2012 Expand
Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry Expand
Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry Expand
Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry Expand
Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast Expand
Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast Expand
Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast Expand
Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast Expand
Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast Expand
Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast Expand
Loyalists taking part in a protest over the restrictions of flying the Union flag protesting outside Belfast City Hall Expand
Up to 1,000 people took part in the cross community Peace Gathering in Belfast city centre Expand
Loyalists in Belfast have been protesting against a decision to reduce the number of days the Union flag will fly from City Hall Expand
Protest outside the Alliance Party office in East Belfast belonging to Naomi Long, following the decision by Belfast City Council to stop flying the union flag every day. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday December 4, 2012. See PA story ULSTER Flag. Photo credit should read: Paul Faith/PA Wire Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a flag protest Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag Expand
Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag Expand
Police in Carrick come under attack from protestors following a fire at the Alliance party office Expand
Police in Carrick come under attack from protestors following a fire at the Alliance party office Expand
Aftermath of riots in Carrickfergus. Photograph by Mark Winter Expand
Aftermath of riots in Carrickfergus. Photograph by Mark Winter Expand
Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest Expand
Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Expand
Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest. Expand
Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest. Expand
Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest. Expand
Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest. Expand
Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest. Expand
Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest. Expand
Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest. Expand
Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest Expand
Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast Expand
Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast Expand
Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast Expand
Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand
Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall Expand

Close

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Police clear road of debris on the lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013

Police clear road of debris on the lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist protesters on their way to Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protesters on their way to Belfast City Hall

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 8th January 2013 - Trouble breaks out on the lower Newtownards Road this evening.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 8th January 2013 - Trouble breaks out on the lower Newtownards Road this evening.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Loyalists protesting in Belfast. January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Monday 7th January 2013 - Trouble breaks out on the lower Newtownards Road after loyalists protested in Belfast city centre this evening as the monthly meeting of Belfast City Council takes place inside Belfast City Hall.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Monday 7th January 2013 - Trouble breaks out on the lower Newtownards Road after loyalists protested in Belfast city centre this evening as the monthly meeting of Belfast City Council takes place inside Belfast City Hall.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Riots on the lower Newtownards Road January 7 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A burned out car during disturbances which erupted in east Belfast

A burned out car during disturbances which erupted in east Belfast

Police on patrol during disturbances which erupted in east Belfast

Police on patrol during disturbances which erupted in east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI in Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

PSNI in Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers in Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

PSNI officers in Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Sunday 6th January 2013 - A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast this evening following a loyalist protest. A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall. Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Sunday 6th January 2013 - A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast this evening following a loyalist protest. A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall. Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Sunday 6th January 2013 - A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast this evening following a loyalist protest.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - Sunday 6th January 2013 - A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast this evening following a loyalist protest.A campaign of street demonstrations has been ongoing since Belfast City Council took a vote on 3 December which limited the number of days the union flag is flown at Belfast City Hall.Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

A car burns in the Castlereagh Street of east Belfast

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist protesters block of the Newtownards Road Belfast where shots are reported to have been fired on Saturday January 5 2013

Loyalist protesters block of the Newtownards Road Belfast where shots are reported to have been fired on Saturday January 5 2013

Colm O'Reilly Photography

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast City Hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist Protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013. Ongoing protests and demonstrations continue at the removal of the Union flag from the city hall. The protest was largley peacfull with only minor skermishes.Picture Mark McCormick.

Loyalist Protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013. Ongoing protests and demonstrations continue at the removal of the Union flag from the city hall. The protest was largley peacfull with only minor skermishes.Picture Mark McCormick.

Mark McCormick

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards after a Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards after a Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Willie Frazer at loyalist protests near Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Willie Frazer at loyalist protests near Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

Willie Frazer talks to Sara Girvin as loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Willie Frazer talks to Sara Girvin as loyalist protestors converge on Belfast city hall. Picture date: Saturday January 5, 2013

Mark McCormick

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

SNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

SNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall.

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall.

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards t

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards t

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist flag protest at Belfast City Hall

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards road, Belfast January 5 2013

PSNI officers on the Lower Newtownards road, Belfast January 5 2013

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Castlereagh Street area of east Belfast following loyalist rioting January 3 2013

Castlereagh Street area of east Belfast following loyalist rioting January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

A burning barricade on the Newtownards road area of Belfast, where police have been targeted by rioters

A burning barricade on the Newtownards road area of Belfast, where police have been targeted by rioters

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Flag protest at Cluan Place, January 3 2013

Carrickfergus flag protest. January 2, 2013

Carrickfergus flag protest. January 2, 2013

Carrickfergus Flag Protest, January 2 2013.

Carrickfergus Flag Protest, January 2 2013.

Loyalists across Northern Ireland have been protesting since councillors in Belfast voted to limit the number of days they fly the Union flag

Loyalists across Northern Ireland have been protesting since councillors in Belfast voted to limit the number of days they fly the Union flag

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Jackie McDonald has warned that loyalist protests cannot succeed in having the Union flag reinstated above Belfast City Hall

Jackie McDonald has warned that loyalist protests cannot succeed in having the Union flag reinstated above Belfast City Hall

Martin McKeown

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Mark McCormick

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Loyalist protestors and PSNI officers pictured at Belfast City Hall on 22 December 2012

Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

Loyalists block the Sandy Row area of Belfast as part of a mass protest over flags

Loyalists block the Sandy Row area of Belfast as part of a mass protest over flags

Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt and First Minister Peter Robinson were among those holding talks about the Union flag dispute in Belfast

Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt and First Minister Peter Robinson were among those holding talks about the Union flag dispute in Belfast

Loyalists protesting around the village area in south Belfast December 17 2012

Loyalists protesting around the village area in south Belfast December 17 2012

Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry

Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry

MCLAUGHLIN ©

Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry

Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry

MCLAUGHLI ©

Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry

Loyalists protesting, blocking traffic in Derry

MCLAUGHLIN ©

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalist hold protests around the village area in south Belfast

Loyalists taking part in a protest over the restrictions of flying the Union flag protesting outside Belfast City Hall

Loyalists taking part in a protest over the restrictions of flying the Union flag protesting outside Belfast City Hall

Up to 1,000 people took part in the cross community Peace Gathering in Belfast city centre

Up to 1,000 people took part in the cross community Peace Gathering in Belfast city centre

Loyalists in Belfast have been protesting against a decision to reduce the number of days the Union flag will fly from City Hall

Loyalists in Belfast have been protesting against a decision to reduce the number of days the Union flag will fly from City Hall

Protest outside the Alliance Party office in East Belfast belonging to Naomi Long, following the decision by Belfast City Council to stop flying the union flag every day. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday December 4, 2012. See PA story ULSTER Flag. Photo credit should read: Paul Faith/PA Wire

Protest outside the Alliance Party office in East Belfast belonging to Naomi Long, following the decision by Belfast City Council to stop flying the union flag every day. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday December 4, 2012. See PA story ULSTER Flag. Photo credit should read: Paul Faith/PA Wire

Paul Faith

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a flag protest

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a flag protest

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Alliance party office which was set on fire in Carrickfergus after a protest rally over the Union flag

Police in Carrick come under attack from protestors following a fire at the Alliance party office

Police in Carrick come under attack from protestors following a fire at the Alliance party office

Police in Carrick come under attack from protestors following a fire at the Alliance party office

Police in Carrick come under attack from protestors following a fire at the Alliance party office

Aftermath of riots in Carrickfergus. Photograph by Mark Winter

Aftermath of riots in Carrickfergus. Photograph by Mark Winter

Aftermath of riots in Carrickfergus. Photograph by Mark Winter

Aftermath of riots in Carrickfergus. Photograph by Mark Winter

Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest

Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest

Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days.

Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Northern Ireland- 4th December 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-Jonathan Porter/Presseye. Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest.

Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest

Loyalist hold protest at Naomi Long's east Belfast Alliance office following a council vote last night which will see the Union Flag only follow certain days. Loyalist protesters pictured on the Newtownards Road during the protest

Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast

Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast

Paul Faith

Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast

Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast

Paul Faith

Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast

Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast

Paul Faith

Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast

Loyalist protestors carrying Union flags clash with police outside the City Hall in Belfast

Paul Faith

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Paul Faith

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Paul Faith

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

Loyalist protestors pictured at Belfast City Hall

/

Lower Newtownards Road. Jan 8 2013.

By David McKittrick

Loyalist protesters in Northern Ireland are threatening to stage their biggest-ever day of disruption tomorrow as they maintain their long-running campaign against the flying of the union flag in Belfast.

Demonstrators will attempt to escalate their campaign of disturbance with roadblocks not just in Belfast, which has borne the brunt of their tactics, but across Northern Ireland.

So far there has been little disruption outside the city, but with police evidently reluctant to clear the roads of the youths, women and children involved, it will be a tense time.

More than 100 arrests have been made, with more than 60 police officers injured, during disorder which has been going on since early December.

The union flag was again hoisted at Belfast city hall yesterday, left, to mark the Duchess of Cambridge's 31st birthday, but was taken down in the evening.

Belfast Telegraph

Related Content

Top Videos

Privacy