The Police Service of Northern Ireland held a multi-faith and belief event at Titanic Belfast on Monday evening, 9 November, as part of its 25th anniversary commemorations. Police officers and staff, their families, faith and belief representatives, and community partners attended.

Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said the anniversary was a time to show appreciation for the work of officers and staff in keeping people safe and building confidence in policing. He said the service was determined to be fully representative of the community it serves and sought public support for an ongoing recruitment campaign.

The event was hosted by former Deputy Chief Constable Judith Gillespie and humanist celebrant Michael Conlon. Music was provided by the PSNI Pipe and Drums and the Glenlola Collegiate Choir. Short reflections were given by representatives of Christian, Islamic, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu and humanist traditions, each offering words of thanksgiving, service, compassion, peace or hope.

In a symbolic act of thanksgiving, 25 individuals, one for each year of the PSNI, came forward with lanterns to conclude the event.

Boutcher said the evening was an opportunity to reflect on the collective journey of the past 25 years and to look forward with optimism. He said attendees from different faiths and cultures spoke positively about policing in Northern Ireland.