Alex Swan, a former Ulster Unionist Party councillor from Drumbo, has criticised DUP MP Sammy Wilson's position on the Union Flag. Wilson described the flag as sacrosanct. Swan, who served more than 36 years under the flag in various roles, prefers the phrase treated with respect.

Swan outlined specific practices for respect. He said flags should not remain tied to lampposts until damaged by weather. He also argued against flying flags in residential areas in ways that intimidate residents, calling it counterproductive from a unionist perspective.

Swan further stated that the flag represents national identity, separate from political identity.

The Union Flag, official banner of the United Kingdom, remains divisive in Northern Ireland. Unionist groups display it to affirm British ties, while nationalist communities often view it as partisan. Disputes over flag flying have led to protests and legal challenges at sites like Belfast City Hall.