In a remarkable display of unity across longstanding sectarian divisions in Northern Ireland, anti-immigration sentiment has seen the British Union Jack flag and the Irish Tricolour flying side by side at a protest against mass migration. This unusual sight took place in Belfast’s city centre – historically the epicentre of ‘The Troubles’, decades-long violent conflict that plagued Northern Ireland.
Anti-immigration activists from both sides of the “united” Ireland debate set aside their differences and united around the cause of halting mass migration to the Emerald Isle. GB News’ Northern Ireland reporter Dougie Beattie expressed his astonishment at this unexpected union, noting that it was the first time in his life he had seen a Union Jack flying alongside a Tricolour.
The anti-mass migration protest, held following a mass stabbing attack on a children’s dance party in Southport, England, primarily consisted of working-class individuals, including some from Dublin. In stark contrast, the pro-migration counterprotest was mainly composed of middle and upper-class people who have not felt the same impact of mass migration policies. The anti-mass migration protest featured a range of flags, such as the Union Jack and the Tricolour, while the pro-migration protest predominantly displayed Palestinian, Antifa, and Pride flags.
Verbal exchanges between the two groups were reportedly hostile, with the pro-migration crowd directing chants of “Nazi scum off our streets” towards the working-class anti-mass migration protesters. The anti-mass migration activists, in turn, allegedly chanted “Islam out.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) deployed riot vehicles and officers to ensure safety during the protests. At one point, police formed a cordon around the Islamic Centre on University Street as the anti-mass migration protest passed by. Several businesses in Belfast reportedly experienced storefront attacks, resulting in at least two arrests.
This unprecedented display of unity among Northern Ireland’s historically divided communities highlights the growing concern over mass migration and its effects on local communities across the UK. As these tensions continue to rise, it remains to be seen whether this united front against mass immigration will lead to further collaboration or if old grievances will re-emerge in the face of ongoing social and political changes.