May 7, 2026
Maria McCann, North east reporter, BBC News NI
A retired pastor has said it is a "very dark day for Christian freedom" after being found guilty of breaching abortion buffer zone laws by preaching biblical verses near a hospital.
Clive Johnston, 78, from Melmount Road, Sion Mills in County Tyrone, held an open-air service in a safe access zone within the vicinity of Causeway Hospital on 7 July 2024.
Clive Johnston disputes the charges on a devolution point and under the European Convention on Human Rights
Paul Higgins
Fri Mar 21 2025
A retired church pastor on Friday denied conducting an illegal protest at an abortion safe access zone in a Coleraine hospital.
Appearing on behalf of Clive Johnston at Coleraine Magistrates Court, defence counsel Aaron Thompson entered pleas of not guilty to the two charges on behalf of the 76-year-old retired pastor, revealing that the defendant disputes the charges on a devolution point and under article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Facebook
Google+
Twitter
LinkedIn