Irish language: Vandalised street signs costing councils £60,000

The development of policies to promote the Irish language has been a point of political dispute between unionists and Irish nationalists.

Traditional Unionist Voice councillor Ron McDowell said he would “condemn utterly any vandalism”, but added that many unionists felt signage was being “foisted upon communities that don’t see themselves as having an Irish identity”.

“We have nothing against the Irish heritage, but what we see across the city, across Northern Ireland, is an abuse of the language,” he said.

The Belfast councillor argued it was being “used as a weapon” to “green” the city and other council areas.

“And that’s why there’s such a strong resistance from people in local communities,” he added.