The Department of Infrastructure (DfI) have confirmed they have received numerous complaints relating to the erection of flags and banners on the Dublin Road in Enniskillen.

The area of the town has seen a significant number of flags erected on lampposts over the summer, along with a banner with the emblem of the Parachute Regiment on it which appeared for the second time, after originally being erected in July.

A spokesperson for the DfI commented: “The Department has received a number of complaints regarding flags and banners on streetlight columns in the Enniskillen area particularly over the July period. The Department has consulted with PSNI and partner agencies to ascertain what information they might have about the likely local reaction to the removal of such displays.

“The banner that was previously erected on the Dublin Road, Enniskillen, in July of this year was removed by persons unknown. With regards to the banner that has now been erected at the Dublin/Derrychara Road junction, DfI is seeking advice from the PSNI and will decide whether or not to take action based on that advice.

"DfI must be satisfied that any action taken will not present risks to the safety of our staff and contractors.”

Reports of the banner's reappearance on Tuesday come a day before the trial against a former British soldier accused of murder on Bloody Sunday was to begin in Derry on Wednesday. The case was adjourned to be heard again in later in the year.

A former member of the Parachute Regiment identified only a "Soldier F", faces charges of murdering William McKinney and Jim Wray in Derry on January 30, 1972.

He faces further counts of attempted murder in connection with Joseph Friel, Joe Mahon, Michael Quinn and Patrick O’Donnell, who were injured on Bloody Sunday, as well as an additional charge of attempted murder against a person or persons unknown.

Sinn Féin MLA Jemma Dolan called for the immediate removal of hurtful and intimidatory banner from Enniskillen.

"This is the second time that this banner has been erected in Enniskillen. Once again it has been put up in a main thoroughfare of our county town.

“I believe the erection of this banner is a clear attempt to stir up community divisions and it has not got the support of the vast majority of people.

“I have been contacted by a numerous Enniskillen and Fermanagh residents, from all backgrounds, who feel they are being intimidated by this disgraceful display.

“Those in positions of leadership within unionism need to come out clearly and state their opposition to this banner and call for its removal.

"It is a source of great frustration that these intimidatory and illegal actions continue to go unchallenged and unhindered by statutory agencies.

“I have reported this banner to the relevant authorities, and I am hoping for swift action."

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council confirmed that Councillors and Council officers have received complaints about the Parachute Regiment banner and have passed them on to the Department of Infrastructure.