PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher has criticised the driver of a police vehicle from which an Armagh flag was waved for their “irresponsible” driving and not meeting the force’s standards of being professional and independent.
But he said that no officers from the force will be suspended or dismissed following social media footage which circulated after Armagh’s All-Ireland win on Sunday.
Videos were widely shared of the incident in Camlough appearing to show someone in a marked PSNI vehicle waving an orange and white flag while driving through the village.
In a statement released on Thursday, Mr Boutcher suggested his officers did not act professionally and independently and that an internal investigation had been launched, but no officers would be suspended or dismissed.
The Chief Constable said he “understood the sentiment” of officers wanting to join in the celebrations, but that there were “other ways” to do it.
“On Sunday evening various people sent me footage of police vehicles with emergency lights and sirens celebrating Armagh’s All Ireland Final victory with the people of 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. We are conducting an internal investigation into what happened which will be proportionate and will not be unduly influenced by anyone. Policing is independent.”
