Coleraine abortion protest buffer zone: Pastor Clive Johnston says 'a lot at stake' as case adjourned for final verdict
A pastor who is on trial for breaching an abortion protest buffer zone in Coleraine says there is “a lot at stake” on the final judgement.
Limavady Magistrates Court has delayed making a decision on the case of retired Pastor Clive Johnston, 77, who is accused of breaching abortion buffer zone legislation at Coleraine Hospital on 7 July 2024.
The former President of the Association of Baptist Churches in Ireland, faces two charges under the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act after holding an open-air service opposite the hospital.
The verdict was deferred yesterday until a written judgment is prepared on Thursday May 7.
Speaking afterwards, Pastor Clive Johnston said outside the court that the outcome of the case would be significant.
“I’m glad the judge has decided to go away and have a think about this case before issuing his ruling because there is a lot at stake,” he said.
“We held a small, open air Sunday service near a hospital. We made no reference whatsoever to the issue of abortion.
“And yet prosecutors say the buffer zones law is so broad that holding our Sunday service was a criminal offence.
“As we now await a ruling, my wife Shiela and I want to take this opportunity to thank the many people who have supported us, especially my legal team, Colin Dougan, Aaron Thompson and John Larkin, and also our brothers and sisters at The Christian Institute whose personal support has been invaluable.
“It’s a difficult thing to go through but we are upheld by the prayers of God’s people and we have drawn near to Christ for help and strength. Christ is the most precious thing in the world to us and that is why we are so keen to talk about him in the highways and byways of this land that we love.”
Pastor Johnston was in court alongside his wife Shiela and a number of supporters.
He is accused of breaching abortion buffer-zone laws by preaching in the vicinity of a general hospital – but says at no time did he mention abortion, but rather simply preached the Christian gospel.
He previously told the court that his intention was to “test” the new law – not to break it.
If convicted he faces a fine, but not jail.