Vol. 473 No. 6
254 Ms O'Donnell asked the Minister for Justice the expertise available to or within the Garda for the investigation of allegations of child abuse; the number of cases currently being investigated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2299/97]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the domestic violence and sexual assault investigation unit of the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation is responsible for overseeing the investigation of child abuse cases. The functions of the unit include assisting in the investigation of particularly serious or complex cases, overseeing the investigative relationship between the Garda and clinics dealing with child abuse and sexual assault and developing a body of investigative skills in the force. In addition, gardaí receive training at the Garda college, at the in-service school and at courses held with local health boards in the investigation of child abuse.
The term ‘child abuse' does not refer to a specific criminal offence and, as such, it is not possible to readily quantify the number of such investigations currently under way involving allegations of child abuse.
255 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Justice her understanding of the definition of absconding; and the length of time an inmate must be outside the perimeter of an institution before gardaí are alerted to an absconding incident. [2301/97]
The term ‘absconding' can refer to a person who leaves the confines of an open centre without permission or a person who breaks the conditions of unaccompanied temporary release by failing to return or sign on at the appointed time or place. As soon as prison authorities become aware of the incident the matter is reported to both the Garda and to my Department.
