Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 April 2004
322 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that rape crisis centres do not deal with rape victims under the age of 18; and resources available to such victims, especially in the area of provision of counselling. [10899/04]
View answerRape crisis centres throughout the country are funded by the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards, primarily to respond to the health needs of adult victims of sexual violence. Responsibility for the care and protection of children rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards. I understand from the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards that the services available to minors who are victims of sexual assault and their parents include professional services such as medical and nursing, social work, child and adolescent psychiatry, clinical psychology and family support services. Services provided include risk assessment, child protection and treatment, counselling, support and advice and alternative care as appropriate.
In respect of the specific resources available to minors who are victims of sexual assault, my Department has sought the information from the Eastern Regional Health Authority and health boards. This information will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
