Clive Johnston awaits judgment in trial over preaching near Northern Ireland hospital
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Apr 25
Clive Johnston awaits judgment in trial over preaching near Northern Ireland hospital
8 articles · Updated · Fox News · Apr 25
Retired pastor Clive Johnston, 77, faces two charges for a July 2024 sermon near Causeway Hospital in Coleraine, with a possible £2,500 fine.
Prosecutors allege he violated the Safe Access Zones Act 2023 by preaching in a protected area, though his sermon did not mention abortion. Judgment is expected on May 7 after Wednesday’s hearing.
The case, monitored by the U.S. State Department, raises concerns about religious freedom and free speech in the U.K., as Johnston may be the first prosecuted for non-abortion-related preaching under the law.
Why is the U.S. State Department monitoring a pastor's trial in Northern Ireland?
From silent prayer to public sermons, where does the UK draw the line on protest?
Will this verdict redefine the legal meaning of 'protest' across the United Kingdom?
How did a grandfather's Bible sermon lead to a landmark religious freedom case?
Are 'buffer zone' laws a necessary protection or a dangerous threat to free speech?
Northern Ireland’s Safe Access Zones Act Tested by Pastor Clive Johnston’s Preaching Case Near Causeway Hospital
Overview
Retired Pastor Clive Johnston is on trial for preaching and singing gospel songs within a designated safe access zone near Causeway Hospital in July 2024. Prosecuted under Northern Ireland's Safe Access Zones Act, he faces charges of attempting to influence abortion service users and failing to comply with police directions. The case, following a March 2026 hearing where the judge deferred judgment, is pending a decision scheduled for May 7, 2026. Johnston's defense argues the law infringes on his religious freedom under the European Convention on Human Rights, while the prosecution maintains his actions violated the law. This case sets a significant precedent, drawing international attention, including concerns from the U.S. State Department about religious liberty and free speech.