Politician flags need for education on tricolour display
The Government should launch a campaign educating people about the rules governing the display of the national flag, a Limerick politician has said.
Protocol dictates that the tricolour should not be displayed in the open after sunset and no worn or frayed flag should be hoisted.
Chairman of of Limerick County Council Kevin Sheahan said: "It is especially disheartening to see the national flag touching the ground, trailing in water or becoming entangled in trees or other obstacles."
He called for the the Government to develop a media campaign "aimed at educating Irish citizens about the guidelines and the importance of respecting the national flag".
- The national flag should be displayed in the open only between sunrise and sunset, except on the occasion of public meetings, processions, or funerals, when it may be displayed for the duration of such functions;
- The national flag is rectangular in shape, the width being twice its depth. The three colours – green, white and orange – are of equal size, and vertically disposed. Often different shades of yellow, instead of orange, are seen at civilian functions. This misrepresentation of the national flag should be actively discouraged;
- When the national flag is carried with another flag, or flags, it should be carried in the place of honour, ie on the marching right;
- In raising or lowering, the national flag should not be allowed to touch the ground;
- On ceremonial occasions when the national flag is being hoisted or lowered, or when it is passing by in a parade, all present should face it, stand to attention and salute;
- When the national flag has become worn or frayed it is no longer fit for display, and should not be used in any manner implying disrespect.
