Kellie Armstrong, Alliance MLA for Strangford, said the Ulster Freedom Fighters flags should be removed immediately as they could intimidate courthouse users.

Ms Armstrong said: “It is appalling to see flags erected in support of any terrorist organisation. The vast majority of people want to see all paramilitaries depart the stage, as there is no justification for their continued existence, never mind marking out territory in this way.

“I have notified the PSNI and Courts Service, who have also received a number of complaints from the public. The placing of these flags in particular could interfere directly with the administration of justice, as they could intimidate anyone using the courthouse itself.

“People have the right to celebrate their culture but paramilitarism has no place in our society. We cannot turn a blind eye to the flying of such illegal flags and urgent action needs to be taken to remove them immediately.”