The Hawaii Federal Judicial Selection Commission is seeking applications and nominations for the position of U.S. District Court judge.

The commission yesterday said the vacancy occurred when District Judge Helen Gillmor took senior status.

U.S. Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka established the commission to screen applicants. The nine-member commission includes members selected by the two Island Democrats and the Hawaii State Bar Association.

The commission will come up with a list of candidates from which Inouye and Akaka will select and forward to the White House for consideration. Federal judges are appointed by the president.

A nomination form is at www.hsba.org, or write to: Chairman, Hawaii Federal Judicial Selection Commission, Suite 2100, ASB Tower, 1001 Bishop St., Honolulu, HI 96813.

Nominations must be received by Sept. 4.