Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 May 2016
41. Deputy James Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to provide support services such as mental health supports for members of An Garda Síochána to ensure their well-being; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12312/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Garda Commissioner is committed to providing a positive and supportive working environment for all Garda personnel. To support this An Garda Síochána provides a Garda Employment Assistance Service. This is a confidential and professional service which provides supports for the welfare and health, including mental health, of personnel and their families. In addition there is a peer supporter network in place made up of in the region of 840 peer supporters who are Garda colleagues appropriately trained to help members following a traumatic incident in the work place.
I understand from the Garda Commissioner that plans are well advanced for the establishment of an independent 24-7 counselling service for all personnel. The counselling will include a telephone and referral service which will allow for a number of face-to-face counselling sessions for each person. The service will provide counselling on a wide range of work and personal related issues including, but not limited to, critical incidents, trauma, financial, relationship, addiction, bereavement, stress, conflict and health issues.
