The North Belfast MLA was speaking after the Party opposed a DUP motion regarding Belfast City Council’s policy on Irish language.
Ms McAllister said: "The Irish language belongs to all of us and is an important part of our shared heritage and cultural diversity. Instead of depoliticising this issue and supporting the growing number of people from across our community who are embracing the language, others seem intent on stirring a divisive culture war.
“Alliance is clear, any process for bilingual signage should be fair, transparent and command the confidence of local residents. Whilst the 15 per cent threshold is appropriate to trigger further consideration of an application, we do not support the erection of dual language signage where a majority of residents oppose it.
“The DUP’s hostility towards the Irish language is disappointing but not surprising. Sinn Féin also need to reflect on their approach. Their insistence on pressing ahead with signs against the wishes of a majority of residents has undermined confidence in the process and set back community relations.
“Alliance has a long track record of supporting the Irish language, and we will continue to do so on the basis of respect, dialogue and inclusion. We should celebrate diversity, not weaponize it in a bid to divide our community.
“Many will despair that while our public services are crumbling and our constituents are struggling with the cost of living, Stormont is expending time and energy debating Council issues. The appropriate forum for this debate is on the floor of Belfast City Council.”
Ms McAllister said: "The Irish language belongs to all of us and is an important part of our shared heritage and cultural diversity. Instead of depoliticising this issue and supporting the growing number of people from across our community who are embracing the language, others seem intent on stirring a divisive culture war.
“Alliance is clear, any process for bilingual signage should be fair, transparent and command the confidence of local residents. Whilst the 15 per cent threshold is appropriate to trigger further consideration of an application, we do not support the erection of dual language signage where a majority of residents oppose it.
“The DUP’s hostility towards the Irish language is disappointing but not surprising. Sinn Féin also need to reflect on their approach. Their insistence on pressing ahead with signs against the wishes of a majority of residents has undermined confidence in the process and set back community relations.
“Alliance has a long track record of supporting the Irish language, and we will continue to do so on the basis of respect, dialogue and inclusion. We should celebrate diversity, not weaponize it in a bid to divide our community.
“Many will despair that while our public services are crumbling and our constituents are struggling with the cost of living, Stormont is expending time and energy debating Council issues. The appropriate forum for this debate is on the floor of Belfast City Council.”