DUP delegation outside IFA headquarters for meeting over National Anthem

FOUR DUP MLAs are currently holding talks with the Irish Football Association on Wednesday afternoon over the decision not to play the UK National Anthem at this year’s Irish Cup Final.

Last week the IFA confirmed there would be no playing of the ‘God Save The Queen’ anthem before the showpiece clash between Cliftonville and Glentoran at Windsor Park this Saturday, May 4.

The football organisation said it wants to ensure there is a “politically neutral” environment.

However, some Glentoran fans are angry at the decision and have urged supporters to hold a protest outside Windsor Park before the game.

Stormont Sports Committee chair Michelle McIlveen will lead the DUP delegation for the meeting at IFA Headquarters in Belfast on Wednesday afternoon, with Health Minister Edwin Poots and MLAs William Humphrey and David Hilditch also attending.

They have also been joined by Upper Bann MP David Simpson for the 2 pm talks.

The decision over playing the anthem was made by the IFA’s Challenge Cup Committee.

It’s not the first time the anthem hasn’t been played before a final – a similar decision was taken when Cliftonville took on Crusaders in 2009.

The anthem was not played before this season’s IRN-BRU League Cup final at Windsor Park between Cliftonville and Cruasders.