Eric J. Byrne
Question:125 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the procedures adopted in the appointment of peace commissioners.
Written Answers. - Peace Commissioner Appointments.
The Office of Peace Commissioner is an honorary one and application for appointment is generally made through a local member of the Oireachtas. Each application is considered with reference to section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act, 1924 which empowers the Minister for Justice to appoint from time to time "such and so many fit and proper persons as he shall think expedient" as Peace Commissioners.
Clergymen, solicitors employed in solicitors' offices are not appointed because of their calling. Not all suitable applicants can be accommodated. Persons convicted of criminal offence are normally deemed ineligible.