Vol. 572 No. 2
185 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will work closely with the banks and IBOA members to improve their safety and to support the staff who have been traumatised by bank raids. [22712/03]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there is close co-operation between the banks and the Garda in all aspects of bank security. The business watch scheme run by the Garda community relations section, Harcourt Square, can provide businesses with information on security on request.
It is primarily a matter for the banks to provide support for members of their staff following bank raids. Furthermore at a national level, the Victim Support organisation is a community-based organisation dedicated to providing emotional and practical support to victims of crime. It provides information about victims' rights, represents victims' interests in the formation of social and criminal policy and raises public awareness about victims' issues. Any crime victim may avail of the services provided by Victim Support. My Department has provided funding of €1,077,000 to Victim Support in 2003.
