Moate man appointed peace commissioner

Moate man Shane Lynam was recently appointed as a peace commissioner for county Westmeath.

Peace commissioners are people in the community who can assist with the signing of official documents or other similar tasks. They offer their services for free and are appointed by the Department of Justice.

"There are no qualifying examinations or educational standards required (to become a peace commissioner)," according to the Citizens' Information Service. "The main thing is to be a person of good character who is well established in your community."

Mr Lynam, who holds a Master’s Degree in Environmental Health and Safety Management, was formally appointed as a peace commissioner by Minister of State Niall Collins on April 16.

A familiar face in local voluntary circles, he is a Scout Leader with the 4th Westmeath Scout Group and is a volunteer trustee.

In addition to his youth work, he serves as a Corporal in the Reserve Defence Forces with the 2nd Artillery Regiment, based in Athlone, and he is the public relations officer for the Moate Town Team.

Speaking about his appointment as a peace commissioner, he said he appreciated this opportunity to serve.

"I am honoured to take on the role of peace commissioner. It is a responsibility grounded in trust, fairness, and service to the community, values that I have tried to uphold throughout my career and voluntary work," said Mr Lynam.

A person may need the services of a peace commissioner if they need to: Make a statutory declaration or oath such as when transferring land; Sign a document such as an application for a children's passport; or have an official sign a certificate or order to prove one's address or identity.