The Garda Band has cost Irish taxpayers more than €6 million since 2022, with the 24-member musical troupe performing at nearly 500 events at an average cost of over €12,300 per performance, new Freedom of Information figures reveal.
The specialized unit, whose members hold police ranks such as inspector and sergeant but are not involved in policing duties, cost €1.78 million last year alone. Musicians and administrative support staff earned an average salary of €67,676 each, while additional expenses included over €60,000 on equipment and €17,591 on travel costs.
The band performed at 124 events in 2024, ranging from simple single-bugler ceremonies to full ensemble performances. Nearly 30% of their appearances were school concerts, while over half involved community events such as nursing home recitals and local festivals.
Last year’s bookings included the Dublin Pride Parade, the Ballina Salmon Festival, school visits, and what records describe as a “Black Santa” event and an “old folks dinner” in Stillorgan. The band also performs at official Garda functions including funerals and graduation ceremonies at Templemore College.
The band’s history reflects changing attitudes toward its value. Originally established after the state’s foundation, it was disbanded in 1965 by Justice Minister Brian Lenihan Sr., who deemed it had “outlived its usefulness” and represented “excessive, wasteful” spending. However, it was re-established in 1972 for An Garda Síochána’s 50th anniversary.
A Garda spokesman defended the band’s role, stating it serves community relations purposes and provides “live musical performance of every musical genre to communities nationwide, many of whom would not otherwise experience live music.” The force emphasized the band’s cultural role and its contribution to fundraising for local charities and sports clubs.