The Police Service of Northern Ireland’s (PSNI) use of stop and search powers have remained as a consistent policing approach and tactic over the past number of years in the fight against crime.  Yet aside from evidence related to their use, stop and search powers continue to act as the most common form of adversarial contact between the public and PSNI in the country.

The aim of this unique half-day event is to open up new discussion and debate about the use of stop and search powers by PSNI, with a particular emphasis on the ‘normal’, rather than exceptional use of those powers. It is hosted by the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work (Dr John Topping) and the Senator George J. Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice (Security Theme Lead Dr Mike Bourne).

Involving a range of key contributors from the statutory, community and NGO sector, the event further seeks to develop conversations about the nature and experiences of stop and search powers, along with related issues of accountability in Northern Ireland.

Tea & coffee will available on arrival from 9 – 9.30am, with light lunch available after the event.

Attendance is by RSVP only and places are strictly limited. To attend, please email Dr John Topping: j.topping@qub.ac.uk.