The Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has called on the Irish Football Association to review their stance of playing 'God Save the Queen' before the Irish Cup Final.
The Sinn Fein representative said Windsor Park should be a neutral venue welcoming to everyone.
He commented: “On Saturday Cliftonville players bowed their heads in a dignified protest at Windsor Park as the British national anthem, God Save the Queen, was played before the Irish Cup Final.
“This protest came after the IFA board refused a request by Cliftonville FC not to play the British national anthem before the final.
“In 2013 Cliftonville reached the Irish Cup Final and the British national anthem was not played. The IFA at the time said this decision was about fostering a ‘politically neutral environment’. It would seem IFA have made the decision that a ‘politically neutral environment’ at Windsor Park is not for them.
“The message from the IFA to Irish nationalists is very negative. Windsor Park should be a venue where everyone is welcome no matter what their community background. Sinn Féin is calling on the IFA to review this position and return to its previous position of 2013.”
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email editor@derrynews.net at any time.