Sikhism in Northern Ireland

For Sikhism specifically in the country of Ireland, see Sikhism in the Republic of Ireland.

Sikhism is one of the smallest religions in Northern Ireland with over 389 Sikhs in the country, making up 0.22% of the population.

There have been Sikhs in Northern Ireland since the late 1920s – many of them former members of the British Army. ^[1]

There are 2 gurdwaras: one in Derry and one in Belfast. ^{[2] [3]}

There are reports of Sikhs feeling culturally isolated in Northern Ireland. ^[4] The exemptions for turban-wearing Sikhs to not wear a helmet in certain workplaces, which had applied to Great Britain for 20 years, when it would otherwise be required, were extended to Northern Ireland. ^{[5] [6]}

Demographics

Historical Population of Sikhs

Year	Pop.	±%
2001	219	—
2011	216	−1.4%
2021	389	+80.1%
Census data on the number of Sikhs in Northern Ireland began in 2001.

Sikhs in Northern Ireland

Year	Percent	Increase
2001	0.012%	-
2011	0.011%	-12.6%
2021	0.020%	+80.1%

See also

• Sikhism in the Republic of Ireland
• Sikhism in the United Kingdom
  • Sikhism in England
  • Sikhism in Scotland
  • Sikhism in Wales
• Religion in Northern Ireland

References

1. "Sikhism". Council for the Curriculum, Examinations & Assessment. Sikhism. Archived from the original on 23 April 2024. Retrieved 12 September 2024.
2. McGee, Elaine (28 January 2024). "Derry's Sikh temple given new lease of life". BBC News. Belfast: British Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 12 September 2024.
3. "GURU NANAK GURDWARA BELFAST". belfast.cylex-uk.co.uk. Cylex Local Search. 18 March 2021. Retrieved 12 September 2024.
4. Buttoo, Sanjiv (14 May 2009). "Why Indians 'need voice' in NI". BBC News. L: British Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 12 September 2024.
5. "Turban safety law extended to Northern Ireland". Belfast Telegraph. Belfast: Mediahuis. 15 May 2014. Retrieved 12 September 2024.
6. "Government overturns turban workplace rule". gov.uk. HM Government. 18 March 2021. Retrieved 1 October 2015.