The new Garda baseball cap introduced this week has proven popular with gardaí, and the public – as well as a range of online clothes sellers who appear to be using the Garda name and crest.
The new cap, the official version, will be worn by ranks from ordinary members to sergeants and inspectors while on operational duties. The older, heavier and more formal caps will, however, be kept for formal duties including court appearances.
In addition to the new cap the Garda authorities are issuing a new gilet, or fleece, for the previously issued yellow-and-blue tunics. The cap and fleece completes the move to a more modern look for members of An Garda Síochána.
“It’s giving street style,” the Garda said in a social media post.
However, the new caps are so well liked, copies are already being sold online with the words “Garda Armed Response Unit” appearing on caps, hoodies and a range of other items from phone covers to T-shirts and cushions. The merchandise also appears to display the Garda logo and insignia.
In one instance a website is selling a baseball hat under the headline: “Garda Síochána Ireland Baseball Cap” for €32.40 plus delivery charge. A badge bearing what appears to be the Garda logo and the words Garda Síochána is affixed to the cap.
In another instance a black cap is affixed with the words Garda Emergency Response Unit and what again appears to be the Garda logo. It is sold under the description “Garda Emergency Response Unit – Aonad Práinnfhreagartha (Ireland) Cap.” The cost of this hat is €19.68, reduced from €26, plus postage.
The Garda Press Office said, “The Garda crest is copyrighted.” Using the crest “requires formal permission”, it said.
“An Garda Síochána has previously exercised its copyright on the Garda crest, particularly regarding unauthorised use on third-party items.”
[ Streetwise style for a modern force: A closer look at the new Garda uniformOpens in new window ]
The Garda also warned about impersonation of Garda members, which it said it takes very seriously.
“If you suspect someone of impersonating a Garda, please report it immediately to your local Garda station. Genuine gardaí will always provide official identification to allow you to verify their identity at your local Garda station. They will be patient while you do so,” the statement said.
It added that offences surrounding impersonating a member of An Garda Síochána are provided for in the An Garda Síochána Act, 2005.
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