Dominic Hannigan
Question:517. Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to include homophobic violence in the remit of Cosc; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25239/13]
View answerTuesday, 28 May 2013
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Cosc, the National Office for Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence, has as its remit domestic, sexual and gender-based violence against the adult population and older people living in the community. Inter-partner violence against members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender communities is covered under the remit of Cosc and is mentioned specifically on its website under the heading What is intimate partner violence? which states:"IPV is experienced by all nationalities, education levels and ages and can occur in dating relationships, marriages or long term gay or lesbian relationships, often even after the relationship has ended".
Earlier this year Cosc supported a Union of Students of Ireland (USI) nationwide study of students' experiences of harassment, stalking, violence and sexual assault. The study is based on the successful UK Union of Students Hidden Marks survey, and, inter alia, explores the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students of such violence. The research analysis is currently underway and publication of the full report is expected shortly. However, general violence in the community does not fall under the remit of Cosc. Its prevention and investigation is primarily the responsibility of An Garda Síochána. The Garda Síochána Victims Charter promises to manage cases involving members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender community with sensitivity and, where appropriate, to refer the individuals involved to a Gay Liaison Officer within the Garda Síochána.