The Ulster Unionist representative said the erection of a large number of Tricolours does nothing to persuade those from the local unionist community that the town is a shared space.

“If this has been done as part of the St Patrick’s Day celebrations, it is a totally misguided act.

“Sadly this problem will not just affect Stewartstown. This is most regrettable as recent years have seen various efforts made in different parts of Northern Ireland to try and make the St Patrick’s Day celebrations more accessible to the Unionist community and to turn it into a genuine community festival where all can feel comfortable, with varying degrees of success.

“St Patrick should belong to all the people of the island of Ireland, and it should be possible for all the people, whether unionist or nationalist to celebrate March 17 free from political trappings, which serve to exclude a large section of Northern Ireland society,” he said.

And he added: “Whether republicans like it or not, the Tricolour in Northern Ireland represents the flag of a foreign state, and the sight of it being flown here can be offensive and intimidating to many Unionist people.

“I could point out that unlike the Tricolour, the Union Flag does at least have the Cross of St Patrick represented on it.

“Locally, the Unionist community in Stewartstown when celebrating its culture, has done its best to show tolerance and consideration to ensure that it does not offend its nationalist neighbours. It is clear that the same hand of friendship - is not being extended by some in the nationalist community.”