A SINN FÉIN councillor has welcomed the removal of unionist flags on a water tower in Co Down.

Several unionist and loyalist flags were placed on a water tower in Rathfriland last month. Similar flags had previously appeared on top of the tower in 2019.

Unionist flags on top of Rathfriland Water Tower, in Co Down. Michael Rice. Michael Rice.

Councillor Michael Rice said that it appeared that “there was criminality involved”. The PSNI told The Journal that padlocks had been damaged by people trying to enter the site on 10 July.

The flags have subsequently been removed and Rice is seeking a meeting with the PSNI and NI Water to ensure this does not happen again.

Rice said on a post on Facebook: “This act of intimidation and attempt to mark out territory was unacceptable and caused frustration in the local community.”

He said he had been contacted by constituents about the flags, and raised the issue previously with NI Water and the PSNI.

A spokesperson for the PSNI said: “Officers are continuing to engage with partner agencies and community representatives in relation to any complaints about flags.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the witness appeal form, quoting 1329 of 10/07/26 or call 101.

NI Water has been contacted for comment.