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A change has occurred in the Scottish landscape.

The saltire, historically adopted by pro-independence groups, has currently been waved for a separate purpose.

Throughout the nation, the azure and white of St Andrew is fluttering from lampposts and being displayed with the Union Jack at demonstrations against immigration.

In the past those two symbols were usually spotted on opposing sides of the discussion regarding Scotland's future.

Currently the saltire's presence is generating controversy of its own at demonstrations from Perth to Aberdeen and from Glasgow to Falkirk.

Competing Nationalisms

This struggle for the saltire is furthermore a battle about what it means to be a patriot in today's Scotland - a battle of opposing patriotisms.

Leading Personalities

A leading figure is among the key voices in these ongoing rallies.

He combines opposition to independence and immigration with sharp criticism of the SNP.

They seized our national flag as their symbol and for over a decade we've let them to employ it as a instrument of conflict and animosity.

Counter-Protests

The crowd - divided from many alternative rally participants by a line of police officers - applauded the criticism of the SNP.

The nationalists have created chaos on our nation, dismantling our prosperity and our opportunities at every turn.

Immigration Issues

Immigration is an ongoing issue for the current Prime Minister and appears to be rising up the agenda ahead of the Scottish government elections.

The small boats crisis and the accommodation of asylum seekers in emergency housing have fuelled demonstrations around the United Kingdom.

Community Views

An activist, who called himself Mark, held a British flag showing "Stop the Boats".

He said politicians should be fixing failing government services, not spending taxpayers' money on medical and dental care for refugees.

Opposing Views

At the temporary housing a gathering of alternative activists, including several labor representatives, had gathered.

They too were disapproving of the government leader – but for separate causes.

Budgetary Issues

Both sides look to possess a feeling of dissatisfaction about the nation's weak finances and the bad condition of government services.

The true concern in modern society is the people in government who fail to confront these issues directly.

Shelter Problems

One recurring complaint among protesters is about the quantity of immigrants being sheltered through taxpayer money.

The issue is most acute in Glasgow, which has the Britain's largest quantity of migrants in government shelter.

Emblematic Importance

One refugee, a asylum seeker dwelling in Glasgow's north side, feels the St. Andrew's Cross generally signifies tranquility, unity and acceptance.

Yet he states it is presently being waved "for extremist elements and discrimination".

Community Impact

Discussions concerning symbols are not just raging in Scotland's big cities and blue-collar areas.

In the affluent Renfrewshire village of the Weir Bridge area, the raising of Scottish flags has created conflict on the neighborhood online forum.

Political Implications

The Scottish leader the First Minister said discussions regarding border control were being "fanned by a broader discussion" going on in the UK and around the globe.

I support a Scotland that is tolerant, welcoming and inclusive.

Voting Possibilities

Surveys preceding May's Holyrood election indicate a substantial margin for the Scottish National Party.

Regardless of which flags are shown by any political organization in the election campaign, immigration appears likely to claim its role alongside the budget and community services as a significant topic.