Dear Editor,

I was shocked to see these flags stuck in the middle of the duck pond at the Basins today (August 26). I doubt it has been sanctioned by the council. It is yet another example of the way our flag is being abused and degraded as a political weapon by a certain political movement.

The Basins is a calm, serene nature conservation area, and should be respected as such. It should not be dragged into this current wave of political activity that will cause offence to many people. If someone wishes to put any type of flag on their own property, that is their prerogative and democratic right. But this is so unnecessary and disrespectful to such a beautiful, shared community facility.

I would be interested to hear from Wellington Town Council what they think of this and if they have given permission for it.

Terry Lewis

Wellington

A spokesperson for Wellington Town Council responded: "As the ponds at the Basins are not in the ownership of Wellington Town Council the council has no jurisdiction over what may happen at the site unless it is apparent that there is a health and safety issue or danger to life and in that case, the council will then take the appropriate action to remedy the situation.”