Garda Commissioner Appointment

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 April 2014

Tuesday, 1 April 2014

Questions (410)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

410. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reasons he gave an extension of time in his post to the former Commissioner Martin Callinan; the way he evaluates such requests for extension, in view of the fact that the previous Commissioner, who also sought an extension, was refused; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15082/14]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The authority to make an appointment to the position of Garda Commissioner is vested in the Government, as stated in section 9 of The Garda Síochána Act 2005 - "The appointment of a person to be the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána shall be made by the Government". On 13 November 2012, the Government exercised that authority by extending the term of office of Commissioner Callinan to 7 August 2015. The previous Commissioner, Fachtna Murphy, was also granted an extension to his term of office by the then Government.