The Black Watch has met with Montreal police to discuss the bagpiper who was fined for carrying a ceremonial knife.
At the beginning of November Montreal police seized a sgian-dubh from Jeff McCarthy and fined him $220 for carrying a concealed weapon.
McCarthy was wearing the small knife as part of the traditional Highlander outfit, which includes a kilt, high socks, and a blazer because he was playing bagpipes at the McGill fall convocation.
During a lunch break he left musical instrument at Place des Arts and walked around the Quartier des Spectacles, where he was stopped by police.
Many people of Scottish descent wear the full Highland outfit when playing music, attending the Highland Games, or when on parade.
McCarthy, along with councillor Sterling Downey, has worn the knife while performing at Montreal City Hall.
The Black Watch was concerned because the pipe and drum band of one of Canada's oldest military regiments always wears the full kit, including the sgian-dubh, while on parade.
Montreal police said they will tolerate musicians, those on parade, or at other special events wearing the full Highland dress.
However McCarthy was notified that he should not walk around carrying a knife, especially when he is not in full uniform.
McCarthy was also notified how he can contest the ticket -- and how to reclaim the knife that was seized.
