Schools on the South Shore are now flying Canadian and Nova Scotian flags only.

Other flags representing diverse groups have been removed from outside the schools, according to a release from the Nova Scotia General Employees Union.

First vice-president of the NSGEU Hugh Gillis says removing the flags is harmful.

“The NSGEU is calling on government to stand up for students and staff who deserve to feel welcome and included in their own school,” said Gillis

The flags represent Mi’kmaq, African Nova Scotian and the 2SLGBTQIA+.community.

In their release, the NSGEU says part of the reason the SSRCE removed the flags is due to costs, as they get torn easy and are costly to repair.

We’ve reached out to the South Shore Regional Centre for Education for comment, an update was not immediately available.

During Question Period in the Nova Scotia Legislature Tuesday, Premier Tim Houston said the department will reach out to to the SSRCE to see what drove their decision.

He adds schools need to be safe and welcoming places for all.