Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 May 2017
186. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she has met with the Garda Commissioner to discuss the issue of occupational stress faced by members of An Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20424/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra187. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the procedures in place to assist gardaí who have witnessed traumatic events; and if there is a facility in place for recording the numbers and details of these incidents. [20425/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 186 and 187 together.
I am assured by the Garda Commissioner that An Garda Síochána is committed to ensuring that members exposed to a traumatic incident receive the appropriate organisational response and with this in mind the Garda Employee Assistance Service provides a confidential professional support and referral service to both serving and former members of An Garda Síochána, students and their immediate families.
I am informed that details of all incidents that An Garda Síochána respond to are recorded on the PULSE system.
I understand that there is a Peer Supporter Programme operating in each Garda District and that following a traumatic incident a peer supporter who has received appropriate training in helping colleagues cope with the effect of a traumatic incident in the workplace will contact the member(s) who were involved in the incident and offer support.
All the Employee Assistance Officers and approximately 250 of the peer supporters are trained in Critical Incident Stress Management which is an intervention designed to prevent or mitigate any adverse psychological reactions as a consequence of being exposed to a critical incident.
I am advised that an Independent Counselling Service was introduced in An Garda Síochána on 24 June 2016 which provides counselling on a wide range of work and personal related issues including critical incidents, and trauma. The service is available on a 24/7 basis 365 days a year and provides employees with immediate support from accredited counsellors over the phone and if required follow on counselling sessions in person.
While I have not met the Commissioner specifically in connection with this matter, it has been the subject of discussion from time to time and is also the subject of engagement between my officials and Garda Management.
