asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the recent statistics which imply that the incidence of child sexual abuse is increasing; whether he intends to introduce legislation in this area; his views on whether members of the Garda Síochána are adequately trained and equipped to deal with cases of child sexual abuse; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Child Sexual Abuse.
38.
While I am aware of statistics relating to the matter referred to in the question which have recently been reported in the media, the only information in this connection available to me as Minister for Justice is that provided to me by the Garda Síochána in relation to the number of alleged offences of this nature reported to them. The Garda authorities have informed me that there has been a decrease in the number of reported offences of this nature over the past two years.
In relation to the question of the introduction of amending legislation in this area, the position is that following a decision of the previous administration, the reconstituted Law Reform Commission has undertaken an examination of the law on sexual offences, including the law on child sexual abuse. In so far as any recommendations the commission may make, for a change in the law on child sexual abuse, come within the ambit of my Department, they will be considered by me following the publication of the commission's report.
As regards training, I want to make it clear that the Garda role in cases of child sexual abuse relates primarily to the investigation of alleged offences. The Garda authorities have assured me that they are satisfied that adequate training in this area is provided for the Garda Síochána and that training needs in this area, as in all others, are kept under constant review.