Question
Could PSNI set out its role and responsibilities in dealing with incidents such as the putting up of anti-immigrant and anti-migrant posters in public spaces? In addition, what liaison arrangements are in place with other relevant organisations, for example, the Department for Infrastructure and NIHE to ensure such posters are removed as swiftly as possible?
Answer
Powers & Policy
The following is not an exhaustive list, but rather reflects the statutory framework against which we make all decisions.
- European Convention of Human Rights
- Section 32 of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2000 – Duties of Police
- Section 31A of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2000 – Duties of Police
- Police (Conduct) Regulations ( Northern Ireland) 2016
- PSNI’s Code of Ethics (2008)
The overall aim of Operation AMBULING is to help ensure the Human Rights of individuals are upheld and balanced in the delivery of our general policing functions under Section 32 of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2000, those being to protect life and property, preserve order, prevent the commission of offences and, where an offence has been committed, to take measures to bring the offender to justice. In line with Section 31(A) of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2000, this aim should be approached in a manner which enhances police legitimacy and the trust and confidence of our communities and partners in our service.
Whilst we have a consistent framework through which we approach reported incidents each case must and is considered on its own individual set of circumstances. This becomes even more important in cases where there are potentially competing Human Rights considerations which must be balanced - such as when material is not explicitly threatening, abusive or insulting but is perceived to be.
Where obviously threatening, abusive or insulting material is displayed in public or on land or premises with intent to provoke or where a breach of the peace or public disorder is likely to be occasioned police will take action.
Police work closely at both the local and strategic levels with communities and partners, including DfI and NIHE, to address the removal of posters and offending material. For example, local council arrangements facilitate the removal of graffiti. While every effort is made to remove material swiftly where appropriate, each incident or report is considered on its individual circumstances.
A Community Safety Response Group (CSRG) has been established and is chaired by the Department of Justice (DoJ). A number of partner organisations have been invited to sit on the CSRG, including The Executive Office (TEO), the Northern Ireland Office (NIO), the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), NI Housing Executive (NIHE), a range of housing associations and local councils.
Les Allamby