October 08, 2025 | Operational Policing, Investigations and Events , Local Policing
Request Number: FOI/15795
Category: Operational policing, Investigations and Events – Local Policing
Subject: Street Preaching, Elmwood Avenue, Belfast
Request and Answer:
Your request for information has now been considered. In respect of Section 1(1)(a) of the Act we can confirm that the Police Service of Northern Ireland does hold information to which your request relates. The decision has been taken to disclose the following.
Request 1
On 20 July 2025, a small group of street preachers were present on Elmwood Avenue, Belfast. They appeared to have police presence and/or assistance. Belfast City Council has confirmed that it does not issue permits for street preaching and advised that enquiries on police involvement should be directed to the PSNI. Accordingly, I request the following information:
Did the PSNI receive any notification or request for permission in relation to this street preaching Event?
Answer
Police were made aware that there would be a protest outside the church regarding the annual pre-pride service.
Request 2
Does the PSNI issue, or has it issued, any permit or authorisation for street preaching or similar public gatherings?
Answer
Permits/authorisation are not required for street preaching.
Request 3
What was the reason for the PSNI presence/assistance at Elmwood Avenue on 20 July 2025?
Request 4
Under what legal or operational framework does the PSNI provide such presence or facilitation?
If some of the above falls outside FOI scope (e.g. operational detail), please provide any available records or signpost me to the appropriate authority.
Answer 3 & 4
Police were in attendance to ensure that the protest was peaceful and did not disrupt the church service, it transpired that it was a sermon and not a protest and the event passed off peacefully.