15.— (1) The Garda Commissioner may, subject to subsection (4) and the regulations, appoint persons as reserve members of the Garda Síochána to assist it in performing its functions.

(2) A person is not eligible to be appointed as a reserve member unless he or she has completed the prescribed training.

(3) Subject to subsection (5), a reserve member has, while on duty, the same powers, immunities, privileges and duties as a person appointed under section 14 to the rank of garda.

(4) The power to appoint persons under subsection (1) may be exercised only if—

(a) the Garda Commissioner has submitted proposals to F19[the Authority] for the training of persons to be so appointed, and

(b) regulations have been made concerning their recruitment and training and prescribing the terms and conditions of their position.

(5) The Garda Commissioner F20[, following consultation with the Authority,] may determine the range of powers to be exercised and duties to be carried out by reserve members.

F21[(6) A reserve member is a volunteer and does not perform his or her functions as such a member under a contract of employment.]