Belfast City Council has closed its investigation into a statue of IRA hunger striker Bobby Sands in west Belfast. The monument stands on public land in the Twinbrook area next to an Irish republican memorial garden. It marks 44 years since Sands died at age 27 during the 1981 hunger strike.

Council officers found it not expedient to pursue further action under their planning enforcement strategy. The statue went up without planning permission or knowledge from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, which owns the land.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill attended the unveiling last year along with Sinn Féin representatives. O'Neill called it a powerful tribute and noted her attendance at a VE Day event the same day to show commitment as first minister for all.

Sinn Féin assembly member Danny Baker welcomed the council decision as a common-sense outcome. He said it reflects community respect for Sands and fellow hunger strikers from the protest seeking political prisoner status during the Troubles.

DUP deputy leader Michelle McIlveen criticised the event. She stated Sands belonged to a terrorist organisation and honouring him reopens past wounds.

DUP councillor Sarah Bunting raised concerns over the closure. She said it creates a perception that republican cases lack meaningful outcomes and signals some can ignore planning rules without consequence.

Records show nearly 200 paramilitary murals and memorials on NIHE land and property.