In the North 3 men have been arrested after 18 people were injured during disturbances in Belfast overnight. 

Hundreds of loyalist protesters tried to storm Belfast City Hall after the council voted to fly the Union Jack flag only on designated days.

15 police officers, 2 security guards and a press photographer were hurt in the clashes.

Reports say more than 1,000 people gathered outside the Hall last night while a debate on the issue took place. 

Controversial vote

It is the first time the Union flag has been taken down from the Edwardian building since it opened in 1906.

Councillors agreed by 29 votes to 21 to bring City Hall into line with Stormont and other government buildings there and fly the flag on 17 designated days.

The Northern Ireland First Minister Peter Robinson says the violence is unacceptable.

Sinn Fein Councillor Niall O'Donnell agrees with him.