Duncan Smith
Question:154. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence if members of the Army bands carry out annual range practices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44109/20]
View answerWednesday, 16 December 2020
Questions (154)
Written answers
The Defence Forces School of Music (DFSM) is a "Special Establishment" of the Defence Forces.
The DFSM has performed at all major ceremonial occasions since the foundation of the State, including all Presidential Inaugurations from that of President Douglas Hyde to the present day. The DFSM also provide musical support for all aspects of military life, including ceremonial parades, graduations, ship ceremonies, etc.
The Defence Forces School of Music engagement schedule includes attendance at Áras an Uachtaráin for Presentation of Credentials ceremonies of newly appointed Ambassadors, the provision of musical support for State visits to Ireland by foreign Heads of State and high profile State Engagements such as The National Day of Commemoration as well as public performances.
The DFSM is organised as follows:-
- Headquarter Company (including Directorate), The Director Defence Forces School of Music has responsibility for the overall direction of music policy within the Defence Forces.
- Army No.1 Band
- Band 1 Brigade
- Band 2 Brigade.
Instrumentalists of the DFSM are not required to carry out Annual Range Practice as they are enlisted as Direct Entry technicians to the DFSM for service as Instrumentalist specialists within the DFSM.
The DFSM also has responsibility for the musical training and equipping of Defence Forces pipe bands. These are made up of members of the Defence Forces who perform in Battalion Pipe Bands, in addition to their normal military function as infantry soldiers.