PUBLIC ORDER AND SECURITY ACT [CHAPTER 11:17] (c) precautions to be taken to avoid the obstruction of traffic along any thoroughfare; (d) prescribing the route to be taken by any procession; (e) requiring the organiser to appoint marshals to assist in the maintenance of order at the public gathering. (3) Whenever it is practicable to do so, before issuing a direction under subsection (1) a regulating authority shall give the organiser of the public gathering concerned a reasonable opportunity to make representations in the matter. (4) A direction given under subsection (1) shall have effect immediately it is issued and may be published⎯ (a) in a newspaper circulating in the area to which the direction applies; or (b) by notices distributed among the public or affixed upon public buildings in the area to which the direction applies; or (c) by announcement of a police officer broadcast or made orally. Provided that, where practicable, the regulating authority shall ensure that the direction is reduced to writing and served on the organiser of the public gathering to which it relates. (5) Any person who is aggrieved by a direction issued under subsection (1) may appeal against it to the Minister, and the Minister may confirm, vary or set aside the direction or give such order or direction in the matter as he thinks just. (6) An appeal in terms of subsection (5) shall be dealt with as quickly as possible. (7) The noting of an appeal in terms of this subsection shall not have the effect of suspending the direction appealed against. (8) A police officer may order the persons taking part in any public gathering to disperse if⎯ (a) any direction given under subsection (1) in relation to that gathering has been violated; or (b) the police officer has reasonable grounds for believing that public order is likely to be endangered if the gathering continues. (9) Any person who fails to comply with an order given under subsection (8) shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding level five18 or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or to both such fine and such imprisonment. 26 Prohibition of public gatherings to avoid public disorder (1) Without derogation from section twenty-five, if a regulating authority believes on reasonable grounds that a public gathering will occasion public disorder, he may by notice in terms of subsection (3) prohibit the public gathering. 18 Before 3rd February, 2006, this was $10 000 dollars. - 18 -