Minister for Justice (Ireland)

The Minister for Justice is a cabinet minister in the Government of Ireland, responsible for the Department of Justice. The Minister oversees the administration of justice, policing, prisons, courts, immigration and related matters within the Republic of Ireland.

Responsibilities:

The specific responsibilities of the Minister for Justice include:

• Drafting and implementing legislation relating to criminal and civil law.
• Overseeing the operation of An Garda Síochána (the Irish police force).
• Managing the Irish Prison Service and the prison system.
• Supervising the Courts Service and ensuring the efficient administration of the courts.
• Administering immigration and asylum policies.
• Representing Ireland in international forums on matters relating to justice and law enforcement.
• Advising the Government on matters of law and justice.

Appointment:

The Minister for Justice is nominated by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) and appointed by the President of Ireland. The Minister is a member of Dáil Éireann (the lower house of the Irish parliament).

Accountability:

The Minister for Justice is accountable to Dáil Éireann and is subject to questioning and scrutiny by members of parliament. The Minister must also answer questions from the public and respond to concerns raised about the administration of justice.

Legal Basis:

The powers and functions of the Minister for Justice are derived from various statutes, including the Ministers and Secretaries Act 1924 and subsequent amendments. The specific legislative framework governing different aspects of the Minister's responsibilities is extensive.