Written answers

Tuesday, 28 March 2006

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Garda Band

11:00 pm

Photo of Jim O'KeeffeJim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 393: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of the Garda Síochána who form the Garda Band; the ranks contained therein and the number of each rank; the other duties they perform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11904/06]

Photo of Michael McDowellMichael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that members of the Garda Band are appointed in accordance with the provisions of regulation 14 of the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 1988 which provide that:

Where the Commissioner is satisfied that a person has special aptitudes, knowledge, skills or technical qualifications which justify his appointment and enrolment under this Regulation as a member . . . the Commissioner may, with the consent of the Minister, duly appoint and enrol the person as a member without regard to the requirements of Regulation 11.

Regulation 11 stipulates the necessity for a period of training before appointment.

Vacancies in the Garda Band are advertised in the national media and filled following interview, test of musical ability, medical examination and character clearance. The current personnel strength of the Garda Band is 37 and consists of one inspector, four sergeants and 32 gardaí. Members of the Garda Band are engaged full-time on band duty with engagements extending to all parts of Ireland. The nature of the engagements vary from official Garda functions, all major sporting events, TV and broadcast media to the schools programme which covers primary, secondary and third level establishments. Major music festivals, religious services and community-based initiatives are also catered for. In addition, the Garda band has performed on a number of occasions in Northern Ireland, the UK and elsewhere in Europe.

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