The public are being asked for their opinions on a Code of Ethics for the Garda Síochána.

The Policing Authority is inviting preliminary views on the subject.

The code is to include standards of conduct and practice for employees, and provisions to encourage reporting by employees of wrong-doing in the force.

"The aim of the Code will be to support every person working in the Garda Síochána to deliver the highest level of professional and ethical standards in their service to the public", the Authority says.

While the Authority says it will consult on the specific text of a draft code in the autumn, it is currently looking for the views of the public, people who work for the Garda Síochána and other key stakeholders.

These include vulnerable groups, children, victims of crime, persons accused of crime and professionals working in the criminal justice system.

The chair of the Policing Authority, Josephine Feehily, said: "It is intended that, once finalised and embedded, the Code of Ethics will inform the culture and practice of the policing in Ireland at every level".

The consultation paper can be viewed here.

Anyone wishing to submit their views can do so by forwarding them to info@policingauthority.ie by close of business on Friday, May 8th.