Seán Power
Question:65 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Justice whether she intends to introduce guidelines with a view to dealing with domestic violence. [9762/96]
Written Answers. - Domestic Violence.
The Garda authorities have been endeavouring since the establishment in March 1993 of the domestic violence and sexual assault investigation unit at DMA Headquarters in Harcourt Square, Dublin 2 to deal more effectively with domestic violence. The unit is staffed by gardaí who are trained and experienced in dealing with domestic violence and sexual assaults.
The functions of the unit include overseeing the investigation of offences of domestic violence, child sexual abuse and other violent and sexual offences committed against women and children and enforcement practices in respect of protection and barring orders. The unit works in close contact with the Garda community relations section and liaises with organisations, both statutory and voluntary, which deal with violent or sexual crime against women and children.
In 1994, the Garda Commissioner issued a pro-arrest policy document on the procedures to be followed by the gardaí in incidents of domestic violence. The primary concern of the gardaí in such circumstances is for the protection of the victims of domestic violence through law enforcement. The policy document sets out the manner in which investigations should be conducted and reported.
Outside of the Dublin metropolitan area, the Garda authorities have designated an inspector in each Garda division to have overall responsibility for this area and to ensure a uniform and consistent approach. This plan of action was implemented in April 1994 and is the subject of ongoing review by the Garda authorities.
Statistical information on the incidence of domestic violence is now being generated and published in the annual report on crime.