Call made to tackle an increase of sectarianism in Derry following bonfires

A call has been made to tackle an increase of sectarianism in Derry.

Ulster Unionist councillor Darren Guy made the call following the burning of flags, poppy wreaths and other emblems on bonfires in the Bogside and Creggan areas on Friday night.

Names of a dead child and a former senior detective who was shot and seriously injured also appeared on the Creggan bonfire but was removed.

Alderman Guy said: "First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to those who made efforts to have the crimson flag returned to St. Columb’s Cathedral and the historically significant US flag restored to Foyle College. Sadly, these appeals were ignored. The theft of the crimson flag from a place of worship is a disgrace, and those responsible should feel deep shame. The burning of that particular US flag represents not just vandalism, but the irreversible loss of a piece of our shared history.

"Regarding the burning of poppy wreaths: I understand that some within the nationalist community do not support the symbolism of the poppy. That is their right, and I respect their freedom to hold that view. But that’s where it should end. Those of us who choose to honour our fallen through the poppy should be allowed to do so without interference. To steal wreaths just 30 minutes after a memorial service and then burn them is not protest—it’s a violation of basic decency. Respect must go both ways. It is hard-earned but easily lost.

"The actions of a small, bigoted group of youths this week have taken sectarianism to disturbing new heights. The inclusion of young Kyle Bonne’s name on a bonfire retraumatised his grieving family. The targeting of ex-DCI John Caldwell and a serving PSNI officer—complete with a degrading banner—was appalling. Even my own name appeared on the Gobnascale bonfire, accompanied by crosshairs and insults. These young men are wasting their lives, consumed by hatred for those who may differ in belief but are, in truth, not so different.

"Let me be absolutely clear: I believe both communities have the right to hold bonfires as part of their cultural expression. But the burning of flags, emblems, and issuing threats to members of the public, PSNI officers, or elected representatives is abhorrent and indefensible. Communities like Nelson Drive and Irish Street have taken commendable steps in the past to eliminate the burning of flags and emblems from their bonfires. I sincerely hope they continue on that path—and they deserve recognition for doing so.

"So where do we go from here?

"Sectarian tensions between Catholic and Protestant youths in our city are rising at an alarming rate. Social media is being used to arrange fights; memorials and murals are being vandalised; flags are being stolen from private property, causing damage to homes and vehicles. While flags are often taken from lampposts, theft from private property is a criminal act that includes damage. These incidents are happening in the dead of night—between 3am and 6am. Why are 14-year-olds roaming the streets at these hours? Do their parents know? Do Social Services? This cannot continue. If we don’t act now, someone will be seriously hurt—or worse.

"I call on community leaders, parents, educators, and public agencies to come together and confront this growing crisis. We must foster respect, restore accountability, and build a future where our young people are guided by hope, not hatred."