Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

With regard to the specific question from Deputy Niall Collins, we acknowledge that the vacancy has arisen for the chairperson of GSOC on foot of Mr. O'Brien's resignation. The appointment of members of the Ombudsman Commission is governed by section 65 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005. This stipulates that the commission consists of three members, all of whom are to be appointed by the President on the nomination of the Government following the passage of resolutions by both Houses of the Oireachtas recommending the appointments. The 2005 Act requires that the Government be satisfied that the persons nominated have the appropriate experience, qualifications, training and expertise for appointment, having regard to the functions of the commission. The Minister has indicated that the Government, in accordance with the 2005 Act, will consider the question of a nomination of chairperson of GSOC.

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