The East Belfast Green Party is saddened a mural of football hero George Best depicting positive aspects of local culture in the area is being replaced by a hostile and divisive mural of a UVF gunman.
East Belfast Spokesperson Ross Brown said: “This mural is a step away from the good community relations we need to promote.
"It is important we do not radicalise the next generation of young people in Northern Ireland or we risk condemning them to repeat the mistakes of the past.
“The Government needs to do more to create jobs and tackle the high levels of deprivation and inequality in East Belfast and the local community also needs to play its part by creating a welcoming and positive space for all.
"For many people, lack of employment and social deprivation, in addition to a breakdown in the sense of community, is generating a deep sense of insecurity.
"Images such as this mural seem to be a public outworking of the feelings of some sections that the peace process is failing because the community feels left behind.
“I understand the frustration that is felt by many in East Belfast on the issues concerning identity.
"But this mural is a backwards step for the promotion of an inclusive and positive culture.
"It degrades rather than improves people’s perception of loyalist identity."
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