Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 May 2026
414. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration whether he acknowledges the practical difficulties currently faced by Peace Commissioners in verifying their official status, particularly in comparison to members of An Garda Síochána who can produce warrant cards; and if he will commit to progressing this matter as a priority. [30588/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the provisions of section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act 1924, Peace Commissioners are appointed, and may be removed from that appointment, by the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, and each newly appointed Peace Commissioner is issued with a Warrant of Appointment. My Department informs An Garda Síochána of all newly appointed Peace Commissioners in the respective area.
The Warrant of Appointment is an important document which should be retained at all times by an individual while appointed to the office of Peace Commissioner. Where an individual or a body requires further confirmation that a person has been appointed as a Peace Commissioner, it is open to them to contact the Peace Commissioner Unit in my Department.
The Warrant of Appointment for a Peace Commissioner is a unique document and as such, replacement/duplicate warrants are not issued. If a Peace Commissioner misplaces their warrant, they may write to my Department requesting a letter confirming their inclusion in the Roll of Peace Commissioners.
I can advise the Deputy that a review of the role and functions of Peace Commissioners, as well as of the appointment process, is currently underway in my Department and will include consideration of matters regarding identification of Peace Commissioners.
Other areas of focus in the review will include a review of the existing functions and powers of Peace Commissioners, appointments, removal and complaints procedures for Peace Commissioners, as well as the updating and maintenance of the Roll (Register) of Peace Commissioners and consideration of making the Roll available online.
As part of this work, my Department is reviewing the Roll (Register) of Peace Commissioners with a view to making it as accurate as possible. While this is a complex and lengthy undertaking, good progress has been made to date in this regard.
Once that work has been completed, consideration will be given to making the Roll of Peace Commissioners available online and accessible to the public, subject to consideration of any relevant legal, technical or other constraints.
