Coat of arms of Northern Ireland

Coat of Arms of Northern Ireland

Coat of arms of Northern Ireland refers to the official heraldic symbol representing Northern Ireland. Unlike the national symbols of the constituent countries of the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland does not have a legally defined coat of arms. However, the Ulster Banner, which was derived from the former Government of Northern Ireland's coat of arms, is often used unofficially as a de facto emblem.

Description

The coat of arms that was used by the Government of Northern Ireland was granted by the College of Arms in 1924. The blazon (heraldic description) of the arms was as follows: Argent, a cross gules, on a six-pointed star of the field ensigned by a royal crown proper a dexter hand couped at the wrist of the second. This means that the shield had a silver (white) background with a red cross. At the center was a six-pointed star, also silver, topped with a royal crown, and in the center of the star was a red right hand. The red hand is the symbol of the O'Neill dynasty, a powerful group in the history of Ulster, the northern province of Ireland.

Components and Symbolism

The components of the coat of arms carry deep symbolism. The red cross on white field is the St George's Cross, representing England, while the six-pointed star signifies the six counties that make up Northern Ireland. The crown symbolizes the monarchy of the United Kingdom, and the red hand of Ulster is a traditional symbol with ancient origins, often associated with the Gaelic chieftains of the region.

Usage

The coat of arms granted in 1924 was used by the Government of Northern Ireland until the government was dissolved in 1972 under the Northern Ireland Constitution Act 1973. Since then, there has been no official coat of arms for Northern Ireland. The Ulster Banner, which features the same elements as the coat of arms, is used by some as an unofficial symbol, particularly in sporting events where Northern Irish athletes compete.

Controversy and Modern Usage

The use of the Ulster Banner and by extension, symbols derived from the coat of arms, is controversial and often associated with unionism and loyalism. In a region where symbols are highly politicized, the use of the Ulster Banner or any derivative of the coat of arms by official bodies can be contentious. As a result, neutral symbols are often preferred in official capacities to represent Northern Ireland, especially in contexts that involve both communities in the region.

See Also

• Flags and emblems of Northern Ireland
• Heraldry of the United Kingdom
• Ulster Banner
• O'Neill dynasty