Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 July 2018
241. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the domestic abuse intervention policy forms part of the training of student gardaí in Templemore; and the format this training takes. [31920/18]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for carrying on and managing and controlling generally the administration and business of An Garda Síochána, including by arranging for the training of its members and civilian staff and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.
I am advised by the Garda Commissioner that all Gardaí recruited since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014 undertake the new 2 year training programme which leads to a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Policing and is accredited by the University of Limerick. The programme is the outcome of a comprehensive review of foundation training for entrants to An Garda Síochána and exemplifies best practice.
Phase 1, which lasts 32 weeks, is based in the Garda College and places a strong emphasis on problem-based learning where students learn in small groups through engagement with realistic policing scenarios. This methodology emphasises the development of ‘learning to learn’ skills, the development of reflective practice and supports the transition into learning in an operational policing environment.
An Garda Síochána Domestic Abuse Intervention Policy 2017 identifies the nature of intervention that personnel within An Garda Síochána are required to make when responding to Domestic Abuse related incidents. The policy incorporates Garda Síochána standards, procedures, relevant legislation and victim support information relevant to Domestic Abuse related incidents.
I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that as part of their Phase 1 training Trainee Garda attend a three hour workshop which covers the relevant legislation, Garda practice, and the assistance and support mechanisms which are available to victims of domestic violence. In addition, training in relation to the legislation and powers of arrest available to members of An Garda Síochána is provided to Trainee Gardaí during this Phase through the roll out of Problem Based Learning Scenarios and the Garda Decision Making Model which guides the Trainee Gardaí to a conclusion of the scenario. Also during the Officer and Public Safety Training Module of the Phase 1 training, a domestic violence scenario is rolled out where trainees learn to respond appropriately to a complaint of domestic violence.
I am further informed that during Phase 3 of their training Probation Gardaí attend a 1 day workshop/lecture on domestic violence which is delivered by Garda College Instructors who are trained in the area and also by external speakers from the Women’s Aid Agency which are involved in support mechanisms for victims of domestic violence.
