Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 June 2023
343. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question No. 464 of 20 June 2023, to elaborate on the review of the Peace Commissioner process being undertaken by her Department; to outline the terms of this review and what brought it about; whether it may result in any legislative change to the Courts of Justice Act 1924; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31799/23]
View answerThe Justice Plan 2023 contains a commitment to review the Peace Commissioner appointment process. This work is being undertaken in the context of a broader review of the role of Peace Commissioner given that the legislation underpinning Peace Commissioners dates back to the Courts of Justice Act 1924.
As well as the appointment process, I can inform the Deputy that the main areas of focus for the review of the role of Peace Commissioner includes, a review of existing functions, powers, removal and complaints procedures; maintenance of the Roll of Peace Commissioners and consideration to making a Register of Peace Commissioners available online.
As part of the review, desk based research was undertaken by my Department to understand the nature of comparable roles in similar jurisdictions.
My Department will complete and report on the review which will include recommendations relating to preferred policy options, including possible legislative changes.
