Police have cautioned two men following disruption at a community engagement meeting in Craigavon where a group unfurled banners and hoisted flags outside before making their way inside.
During the course of a quarterly community engagement meeting in Craigavon Civic and Conference Centre on the evening of Thursday, February 28, a number of protestors entered the building.
Deputy Chief Constable, Bobby Singleton said: “A small number of protestors wore masks which they removed when asked to do so by police, before entering the building to read a statement to those in attendance.
“A short time later, at the request of the meeting’s Chair, police escorted the protestors out of the building, and a brief, peaceful protest was held outside. The meeting recommenced without any further disruption.
“These meetings are a vital engagement opportunity, ensuring key issues within the district can be raised with the Neighbourhood Policing Team. Last night saw a range of cross-community and cross-party representatives come together with police and local residents to identify and prioritise areas of concern.
“The right to freedom of speech and freedom of assembly are fundamental human rights. They are protected in law and allow individuals to engage in peaceful protest. However, these rights must be balanced with the need to uphold the rights of others, protect public health and safety, minimise disruption to normal life and by the need to prevent and detect crime.
“Following disruption at a District Community Safety Partnership meeting which was held in North Belfast on Tuesday February 25, two men aged 40 and 30 years old were cautioned by police on Wednesday February 26. A file is currently being prepared for the Public Prosecution Service for public order offences.
“Police will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the disruption caused at the District Policing & Community Safety Partnership meetings at both North and West Belfast this week, and in line with our operational procedures, we will review our plans to ensure an appropriate and proportionate policing plan is in place for similar future events.”
Advice on how to protest lawfully can be found here.
