PSNI Chief Constable Responds To GAA Celebration Controversy

PSNI Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher, has said that the responsibility of being a police officer "demands that, at all times, we act professionally and independently".

The Chief Constable was responding after footage appeared online showing PSNI vehicles deploying their emergency lights and sirens in celebration of Armagh's All Ireland Final victory in Camlough.

Mr Boutcher said: "My reaction to that footage is very straightforward. We are the police and that privilege and responsibility demands that, at all times, we act professionally and independently. That did not happen on Sunday night in Camlough. I am very alive to the polarised commentary which has taken place since the footage came to light which again demonstrates that policing in Northern Ireland remains a lightning rod for societal views.

"I have had many telephone calls in both condemnation and support of the officers' actions. Some have asked for the officers to be suspended and even dismissed whilst others have supported the officers and called for commendations for them. Let me be crystal clear, no one is being suspended or dismissed, however, nor do I support what the officers did.

"It is not lost on me that earlier on Sunday evening we issued a post on local Armagh social media channels rightly congratulating Armagh on winning the All Ireland Final and putting details of our Fatal Five road safety messaging, reminding drivers to stay safe. Then, later that evening, police vehicles were seen being driven in Camlough in manner which was irresponsible. I, of course, understand the sentiment of what those police officers were seeking to do in supporting the local community in Armagh's brilliant win. But there are many other ways to show that support, driving in that manner is not one of them."

The Chief Constable confirmed that an internal investigation, which he said will be proportionate and not unduly influenced, is now underway.

He concluded: "Finally, having seen the response to the events in Camlough, I ask that everyone gets perspective and that we all think of those poor families in Southport, all of whom should be in our thoughts and prayers. Having seen the reports of those awful, murderous attacks on children I immediately reached out to the local Chief Constable of Merseyside to offer my support and all of our condolences.

"I am also disheartened by the public disorder that has occurred due to misinformation on social media about the tragic events in Southport. The dangers of inaccurate and unsubstantiated claims being spread around should not be lost on anyone and I know that especially should be well understood here in Northern Ireland."