Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 March 2018
289. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if there are guidelines for peace commissioners using their PC suffix while advocating a particular position in referenda campaigns (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13534/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraPeace Commissioners are appointed by the Minister for Justice and Equality under Section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act, 1924. It is an honorary position and a Peace Commissioner receives no remuneration or compensation from public funds.
At present the powers and duties of a Peace Commissioner are primarily the taking of statutory declarations; witnessing signatures on documents; signing certificates and orders under various Acts.
Unless the use of the suffix 'PC' or "Peace Commissioner' is clearly intended to improperly imply an authority or function in a matter unrelated to that title, or its use brings the title into disrepute, no issue arises concerning the expression of personal views by Peace Commissioners while using that suffix.
