Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 February 2024
223. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the extent to which members of An Garda Síochána injured or traumatised in the course of their duty have access to appropriate counselling; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8603/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, which includes Garda HR matters. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
The Government has consistently sought to support the mental and physical wellbeing of Gardaí in recent years. In Budget 2024, the government provided €6m for Garda wellbeing initiatives, additional medical costs and over 2,500 units of body armour.
An Garda Síochána has introduced a range of measures in recent years to support front-line Gardaí including an increase in personal safety equipment and in the number of front-line supervisors.
There are a number of support systems in place to help Gardaí address issues of stress and mental health. These include an Employee Assistance Service, as well as trauma counselling and peer support.
I am pleased to note that the Garda Employee Assistance Service provides a proactive response to support and assists Garda personnel in managing and resolving work and personal difficulties at an early stage, and in an effort to maintain their health and wellbeing.
The service provides a confidential, professional, support and assistance service to:
- Serving members and their families.- Garda Trainees and Probationers.- Retired members and their families.- Reserve Gardaí.- Garda Staff and their families. - Retired Members of external police services resident in the State.
I am informed that the service is supported by peer supporters within An Garda Síochána who are located in each District/Division. Peer Supporters are colleagues who are appropriately trained to provide support to personnel who have been exposed to or experience a traumatic event in the workplace.
Peer Supporters are activated following a traumatic incident in the workplace and very often the immediate activation and response from a peer supporter has a huge impact in assisting colleagues in the aftermath of such occurrences.
I am further informed that a 24/7, 365 Independent Helpline and Counselling Service is available to all staff within An Garda Síochána with the service available for both work and personal difficulties.
