Belfast City Council has closed its investigation into a statue of Bobby Sands erected without permission on public land in west Belfast. The council followed its planning enforcement strategy, stating action would not have been expedient.

The statue stands on a plinth in the Twinbrook area, depicting Sands in a black coat holding a flagpole with an Irish tricolour. First Minister Michelle O’Neill attended its unveiling last May.

Ulster Unionist Justice Spokesperson Doug Beattie described the statue as a symptom of ongoing division in Northern Ireland. He noted more memorials exist for those involved in Troubles violence than for victims.

Beattie argued society cannot progress while dragged back to Troubles legacy by various interests. He predicted the issue will fade from news without reform to planning and symbols regulation.

DUP group leader Cllr Sarah Bunting requested a special council meeting to address consistency in planning enforcement. She stated regulations must apply equally to maintain public confidence.

Alliance Cllr Sam Nelson called for rules on flags, symbols, murals, and statues to be followed uniformly. He stressed the need for a fair planning system with public faith.

Northern Ireland Housing Executive manages the land and removes illegal structures only with broad local community backing.