The actions of police officers who joined celebrations after Armagh won the All-Ireland football championships on Sunday were not professional or independent, PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher has told the Policing Board.
Mr Boutcher also said that, while he did not support the actions of the officers, nobody would be suspended or dismissed.
The PSNI has launched an internal investigation after video footage emerged that appeared to show police vehicles driving through the village of Camlough sounding their sirens as people cheered from the footpaths.
Fans could be seen passing an Armagh flag to the driver of one of the vehicles, who holds it out of the window and drives on.
The footage emerged hours after Armagh had defeated Galway at Croke Park in Dublin to win the county’s second ever All-Ireland championship.
A number of unionist politicians have raised concerns, both from a road safety perspective and on issues around impartiality.
Mr Boutcher told the board: “On Sunday evening various people sent me footage of police vehicles with emergency lights and sirens sounding celebrating Armagh’s All Ireland Final victory with the people of Camlough.
“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.”
Mr Boutcher said he had received many phone calls, both in condemnation and support of the officers.
He said: “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.”
He added: “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 a 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.”
