Flags, murals and memorials which are intended to glorify paramilitary organisations, both republican and loyalist, are commonplace across Northern Ireland.
They send out a sinister message and give the impression that particular districts are under the control of one group or another.
Residents are frequently horrified by the image of their home area which is presented as a result, but are too frightened to speak out publicly.
Almost without exception, the paramilitary tributes have no planning permission and have been erected illegally.
The latest, which falls into the same category, is a large stone monument, accompanied by two flag poles, which has appeared on a Housing Executive estate in Maghera, Co Derry in recent days.
It carries the names of two INLA members, Brendan Convery and James Mallon, who were both shot dead as they attempted to ambush police officers in Dungannon, Co Tyrone, 20 years ago.
The Housing Executive which owns the land in question has confirmed that no form of authorisation has been granted for the memorial, but an unveiling ceremony went ahead over the weekend anyway.
Everyone has the right to commemorate dead friends or relatives, but they have an obligation to do so in a way which is both legal and appropriate.
It is essential that, where paramilitary groups are concerned, the views of their victims should also be taken into full consideration.
Those behind the Maghera initiative should be prepared to apply for planning permission in the normal way.
Instead of becoming involved in a confrontation with the authorities, they should voluntarily remove their monument until their application can be fully considered.
