Finian McGrath
Ceist:663 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the rise in racist incidents in certain areas; and his plans to deal with this issue. [15395/03]
Vol. 568 No. 1
663 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the rise in racist incidents in certain areas; and his plans to deal with this issue. [15395/03]
The Garda Síochána is the body responsible for dealing with the investigation and detection of criminal matters, which includes racially motivated crime, and investigates thoroughly all such matters reported to it. I am advised by the Garda authorities that the Garda racial and intercultural office was established in 2001 to liaise, monitor and advise on issues relating to interculturalism. Furthermore, 145 gardaí have been appointed ethnic liaison officers in districts and divisions around the country. The role of these officers is to liaise with leaders of the ethnic communities and to inform and assure those communities of Garda service and protection.