The sheriff (Irish: sirriam) of the City of Cork is the court officer responsible for the enforcement of civil judgments in Cork county borough. The current sheriff is a solicitor, Martin A Harvey. Sheriffs earn their fees from poundage (commission). Before 1842 two sheriffs (and the Mayor) were voted into office annually by the freemen of the city. After that time, the power of appointment of a single sheriff per year was vested in the crown.
The sheriff also performs the duties of the returning officer in elections (other than local elections) and some other duties concerning pounds. Sheriffs may appoint court messengers, subject to the approval of the Minister for Justice, to assist them with their work.
