Executive reveals new commission on flags

The Executive announced the makeup of the panel on Monday. Credit: Pacemaker

The makeup of the Executive's new Commission on Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition has been announced.

It will be co-chaired by Neville John Armstrong and Dr Dominic Paul Bryans and will have a total of 15 members, seven of whom are political appointments.

The remaining eight are drawn from outside of government.

First Minister Arlene Foster and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said the establishment of the commission “marks another key milestone in the Fresh Start Agreement”.

Membership of the Commission on Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition in full:

  • Mr Ian Crozier

  • Mr Richard Good

  • Mr Tom Hartley

  • Professor Thomas William Hennessey

  • Dr David Thomas Hume MBE

  • Mr Donncha Mac Niallais

  • Mr Nelson McCausland MLA

  • Mr Ian McCrea

  • Dr Katy Radford MBE

  • Mr David Anthony Robinson

  • Mr Mukesh Sharma MBE

  • Mr Carl Whyte

Arlene Foster said: “The commission presents a unique opportunity to take a fresh approach to dealing with the complexities of flags, identity, culture and tradition.

“The commission will undertake a very important programme of work and I commend those who are taking an active role in shaping a Northern Ireland free from segregation and division.”

Martin McGuinness said: “We must develop a society which is open, tolerant and mutually respectful.

“This commission will contribute to this and pave the way for greater awareness and understanding of differing cultural identities.”