Police are aware of misinformation circulating on social media regarding advice to employers in Belfast city centre on Friday 9th August. This has not been issued by the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
Official Police Service social media channels will be kept up to date with the latest advice on planned protests.
We are aware of planned protest activity throughout Northern Ireland tomorrow.
We will have a significant policing operation in place, and are working hard to keep everyone safe, while supporting the right to peaceful protest.
We would remind everyone that when engaging in protest, they should adhere to the following:
- Follow the instructions of Police.
- Respect the rights of others.
- Do not endanger your own safety, or that of anyone else.
- Do not block a roadway or footpath.
- Do not enter any building as a trespasser, or cause damage to property.
- If you find yourself in a situation within a large group of people, which feels dangerous, try to leave the area as soon as possible.
- If the protest involves a parade then this must be notified to the Parades Commission. Taking part in a procession that is not notified is a criminal offence and you may be liable to prosecution.
- If you participate in disorder, you risk getting arrested. The penalties for being involved in serious disorder can be very high, with rioting carrying a maximum sentence of ten years in prison.
Information on protest and civil disobedience can be found here.
We have also have information for business owners on safeguarding your business and your employees, here.