'Annual display of hate must end' - O'Neill

Sinn Féin Northern Leader Michelle O'Neill has called on the PSNI Chief Constable to take steps to end the annual 'hate crime' of burning election posters and flags on Eleventh Night bonfires.

She commented: "Once again, we have witnessed bonfires across the North being festooned with stolen Sinn Féin election posters, Irish national flags and other emblems.

"The theft and burning of posters from any party as well as flags, effigies and other symbols is not culture, it is a hate crime.

"I have written to the PSNI Chief Constable and told him it should be treated as such by the PSNI and appropriate steps taken.

"There is also a responsibility on unionist political parties and the loyal orders to show some leadership on this issue and end this annual display of hate once and for all."