The Police Association today applauded the passage of a Bill to restore the democratic right of police officers to stand for election to their local council.

Under the Policing Act 2008, police constables were barred from serving on local authorities while remaining a member of Police. The Policing (Involvement in Local Authority Elections) Amendment Bill removed the bar, meaning police will enjoy the same democratic rights of participation as other State servants.

"This was an issue that concerned a great number of police. The statutory bar simply created another divide between police, as individuals, and the communities they live in and serve. That was in no one's interests," said Police Association President Greg O'Connor.

"Police officers, elected on their own merits as private citizens, have served on local councils in many parts of the country over many years. They have done so because they believe they can make a positive difference. Those communities have been the richer for their involvement.

"The Government committed to removing the statutory barrier. The Police Association is very pleased the Minister of Police, with the support of Parliament, has been able to honour that commitment in time for this year's local body elections," Mr O'Connor said.