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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
William Dunne

Garda Band musician 'punches' band-mate for pulling leg hair before BBC show

A member of the Garda Band allegedly punched a colleague before a live TV gig, it has been reported.

It is said that the incident happened on March 13 at BBC Northern Ireland's Stephen Nolan Show.

The Garda Band were preparing to play with the PSNI Pipes and Drums Band for the first time ever on television when the alleged bust-up occurred.

One member allegedly punched another band-mate after he pulled one of his leg hairs, the Irish Times reports.

The matter is reportedly being dealt with through internal mediation. A source told the newspaper: "Basically, we’re trying to get them to stop acting like kids and cop on."

Members of the Garda band (stock pic) (Collins Photo Agency)

Garda band cost taxpayers over €1.8million in 2017  

It's reported that Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, who last year was Chief Constable for the PSNI, is aware of the matter.

It's understood he is unhappy with the behaviour of some of the band members and the fact the incident was seen by the PSNI and in another jurisdiction.

A garda spokesman told the Irish Mirror that a formal complaint has not been made.

After the performance in March, Chairman of the Pipes and Drums band George Clarke said: "This was a great opportunity for us to collaborate and perform on the one stage with our colleagues in An Garda Síochána.

"I want to thank all those who took part last night and treated the audience to a memorable performance."

The Garda Band, which Garda band cost taxpayers over €1.8million in 2017 , consists of 29 full-time members.

Its members would have completed a training course at the Garda College in Templemore or qualified as a regular garda before being signed to the band due to their musical talents.

The Irish Mirror contacted the Garda Band for comment.

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