Northern Ireland

Adoption

Colors

Symbols & elements

Red Hand of Ulster

On a six-pointed star for the six counties, the open red hand comes from the arms of the O'Neill dynasty. A crown sits above it. The banner has had no official status since 1973 and remains contested.

Construction details

Northern Ireland has no official flag of its own. The Ulster Banner shown here was the flag of the former Government of Northern Ireland (1953–1972) and is today used mainly in some sporting contexts; its use is politically contested.

Construction sheet

Zoom

Specific rules — Northern Ireland

• This flag has had no official status since 1972; the only official flag is the Union Flag.
• It is still used unofficially, notably in some sporting contexts.

Common conventions

• Keep the flag clean and never let it touch the ground.
• Never fly a torn or faded flag — repair or replace it.
• Illuminate the flag if it stays up at night.
• Never use the flag as clothing, packaging or advertising.
• Dispose of a worn flag respectfully, not in the trash.

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