Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland has unnecessarily created a political storm over absolutely nothing, and it has become an absolute disgrace and a PR disaster for the team.
Let me be clear: I support the Ulster Banner. Many people across Northern Ireland feel proud to compete under it, and that pride should not be dismissed or treated as something embarrassing.
This should never have been allowed to escalate. Sport should be about backing athletes and bringing people together — not sparking division through poor judgement and clumsy messaging.
If there are athletes who do not wish to march under the Ulster Banner, they do not have to. No one should be forced to do anything they are uncomfortable with.
But Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland must also recognise that many athletes and supporters feel proud to compete under the Ulster Banner. It is not just a minority. An organisation representing Northern Ireland has a responsibility to think about everyone — not to pander to one viewpoint while dismissing another.
There are sensible, practical ways to accommodate individual preference without manufacturing controversy. Instead, we have seen avoidable chaos which distracts from the achievements and hard work of our athletes.
Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland should urgently clarify its position, calm this down, and ensure that the focus returns to supporting our sporting men and women — not dragging them into an unnecessary row.
Alex Easton MP
Member of Parliament for North Down
