Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 July 2013
516. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether the number of peace commissioners allocated to an area (details supplied) is sufficient; if his attention has been drawn to the availability of peace commissioners in this geographic area; his views on whether additional peace commissioners are necessary to meet the demand for their voluntary services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36172/13]
View answer517. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether the number of peace commissioners allocated to an area (details supplied) is sufficient; if his attention has been drawn to the availability of peace commissioners in this geographic area; his views on whether additional peace commissioners are necessary to meet the demand for their voluntary services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36173/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 516 and 517 together.
Peace Commissioners are appointed under section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act, 1924. It is open to anyone to seek nomination to this office and all such requests for appointment are considered by me. The Garda authorities may also request an appointment in the public interest when they believe there is an essential need for a further appointment. There are currently 17 Peace Commissioners entered on the current Roll of Peace Commissioners residing in the areas referred to. It must be taken into account, however, that Peace Commissioner records are appointment based and that, while every effort is made to maintain an accurate record of active Peace Commissioners, the Department is reliant on Peace Commissioners individually and other interested parties to advise of changes which may occur subsequent to appointment. Peace Commissioner records are maintained by reference to the Garda administrative areas in which Peace Commissioners reside.
