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Garda Communications.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004

Wednesday, 29 September 2004

Questions (974)

Tony Gregory

Question:

1157 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will outline the report-back procedures to victims of crime, for example, following a house break-in, by the investigating gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22847/04]

View answer

Written answers

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the procedures that they use in dealing with the victims of crime are as set out in the Garda charter for victims of crime. The following are the procedures as set out in the charter.

1. The Garda will outline the investigation process to victims and ensure that they are kept informed of the progress of the investigation, including whether a suspect is charged or cautioned. A follow up letter is sent to a victim of crime from the district officer superintendent advising them of the name, telephone number and station of the investigating garda as well as the unique PULSE crime number for the crime.

2. The Garda will inform Victims of crime about the services available from Victim Support. The Gardaí nationally provide a designated Garda Liaison Officer to ensure effective co-operation between Victim Support and the Garda. Locally the investigating Garda will be the victim's designated Garda.

3. The Gardaí will inform victims, where a suspect is charged: whether the accused is in custody or on bail and the conditions attached to the bail; time, date and location of the court hearing of the charges against the accused; the prosecution process involved and, if the victim is likely to be called as a witness, the help available from Victim Support; the circumstances where the judge may ask for a victim impact statement (in sexual and violent offences) and arrange for its completion; victim's entitlement to court expenses at the conclusion of the trial.

4. Where the crime involved caused serious trauma to victims or their family, the Garda will, when notified of the imminent release from custody of the offender, pass this information on to the victim of crime. In addition, they will make whatever policing arrangements they consider appropriate for the victim's safety.

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