Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 February 2015
360. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the procedure regarding a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3 becoming a peace commissioner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4377/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraPeace Commissioners are appointed by me under section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act, 1924 for which there is no remuneration or compensation by way of fees or expenses for services. An application for appointment may be submitted by a person who is interested in obtaining an appointment, or a third party may submit a nomination in respect of a person considered suitable for appointment. Nominations are generally received from public representatives. A local Garda Superintendent can also request an appointment in a particular area in the public interest.
There is no qualifying examination involved but appointees are required to be of good character and they are usually well established in the local community. Persons who are members of professions or employed in occupations which engage in legal work or related activities and members of the clergy are, as a matter of practice, not appointed because of their occupation. Civil servants are usually only appointed where the performance of their official duties requires an appointment (i.e. ex-officio). Persons convicted of serious offences are considered unsuitable for appointment.
Should he wish to do so, the person referred to can submit an application for appointment which will then be considered having regard to the particular needs of the Dublin 3 area.
