The absence of effective regulation at bonfire sites is allowing hate crimes to go unchecked, according to Sinn Féin MLA Declan Kearney.

Mr Kearney, who represents South Antrim, said his office contacted multiple statutory agencies weeks before the 12 July weekend, urging them to prevent hate and environmental crimes at bonfire locations. Despite those efforts, he said, offensive displays and illegal burning again took place on the 11th Night.

At one unapproved site, Mallusk Gardens, a placard targeting Antrim and Newtownabbey Mayor Henry Cushinan was erected. The MLA argued that landowners and authorities had failed to act, leaving local criminals free to burn tyres and toxic materials without consequence.

The South Antrim representative is now seeking a detailed report from the Police Service of Northern Ireland. He wants to know how extensively officers worked with partner agencies to deter criminality, the number of hate crimes recorded, and whether any case files are being forwarded to the Public Prosecution Service.

Mr Kearney said all bonfires should be subject to regulation and enforcement based on good relations policy, existing environmental legislation, respect for property, public health considerations, and community safety. Without such controls, he added, those responsible for hate incidents at these sites will continue to act with impunity.