Does a motorcycle passenger have to sit facing forwards in Northern Ireland?

The Northern Ireland Highway Code says a pillion passenger should sit astride the motorcycle facing forwards, with feet on the footrests.

Rule 85 also sets binding limits on carrying more than one passenger or using a motorcycle that is not designed for passengers. Facing backwards or sitting sideways creates a serious balance and control problem, particularly when braking or cornering. Make sure the passenger can use the designated seating and footrests securely before travelling. Do not treat an instruction expressed as “should” in the Code as automatically a separately named criminal offence.