DUP MP Carla Lockhart has contacted the PSNI chief constable to express concerns over penalties given to participants in a fuel protest on the Sydenham Bypass in Belfast. The protest took place on Tuesday. She questioned how police distinguished between organisers and other motorists caught in the convoy.

TUV MLA Timothy Gaston also complained about the penalties issued during the event. TUV MP Jim Allister highlighted differences in PSNI handling compared to protests in Great Britain and the Bobby Storey funeral in west Belfast.

PSNI issued at least nine fixed penalty notices to protesters this week. Officers also visited some protesters' homes after the events. DUP stated that certain recipients did not meet the legal threshold for careless or dangerous driving offences.

Lockhart recognised the PSNI duty to uphold public order and road safety. She noted the right to peaceful assembly must be protected proportionately.

Allister asked why PSNI acted swiftly against local farming protests when similar actions occurred without penalties elsewhere. Ballygowan farmer Sam Hanna contrasted the quick penalties for farmers with the lack of action at the Bobby Storey funeral during Covid restrictions.

PSNI stated it polices for all community members and balances rights of expression with those of other road users. Fixed penalty notices issue when enforcement is required after assessing competing rights, especially near airports or for emergency services. Recipients can contest notices in court.