Vol. 456 No. 3
129 Ms F. Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Justice whether she has satisfied herself that there are adequate policing resources in the Dublin area to tackle the problem of assaults on women in view of the recent series of attempted rapes and assaults on women in the area. [13883/95]
The Dublin metropolitan area is policed under the direction of an assistant commissioner who is based at Harcourt Square. I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are 3,992 gardaí allocated to the DMA at present. This number is reviewed periodically by the Garda authorities to ensure maximum service to the public.
As an indication of the Garda authorities particular resolve to tackle crimes of rape and sexual assault, they established the domestic violence and sexual assault investigation unit in March 1993. This unit is staffed by gardaí who are highly trained and experienced in dealing with domestic violence and sexual assaults. The functions of the unit include overseeing the investigation of offences of domestic violence, child sexual abuse and other violent and sexual offences committed against women and children. Enforcement practices in respect of protection and barring orders are also carefully examined. The unit works in close contact with the Garda community relations section and liaises with organisations, both statutory and voluntary, which deal with violent and sexual crimes against women and children.
