- National rollout of units a key recommendation of O’Malley Review of Protections for Vulnerable Witnesses
The Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee TD, has welcomed the completion of the rollout of Garda Divisional Protective Services Units (DPSUs) across the country following the launch today of the Meath/Westmeath unit.
Following the publication of the O’Malley Review of Protections for Vulnerable Witnesses in the Investigation and Prosecution of Sexual Offences in August, Minister McEntee indicated that the rollout of the units should be completed by the end of September.
Speaking after a meeting today with the Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, Minister McEntee expressed satisfaction that this target has been met.
I am very pleased to note that Divisional Protective Services Units have now been rolled out in all Garda divisions. The rollout of DPSUs means that specially trained officers are now available nationwide to ensure that when victims of domestic and sexual violence present to Gardaí – at perhaps their most vulnerable moment – they are met with professional and expert assistance.
Tackling domestic, sexual and gender based violence is one of my priorities as Minister for Justice and, in the coming weeks, I will publish a detailed plan on how to fully implement recommendations of the O’Malley Review.
The Divisional Protective Services Units will support the delivery of a consistent and professional approach to the investigation of sexual and domestic crime.
Personnel assigned to DPSUs have been provided with a bespoke training course consisting of a number of modules addressing issues such as: investigation of sexual crime; child protection; investigation of domestic abuse; online child exploitation and sex offender management. This training course has been developed by the Garda National Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB), in conjunction with the Garda College.
The Minister added:
Although we have raised public and professional awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence, reported incidents are shockingly high and it is clear more must be done to address and prevent this violence and abuse. An Garda Síochána recognise that personalised support is needed for all victims of abuse and is key to long-term recovery.
The establishment of the DPSUs demonstrates An Garda Síochána’s continuing prioritisation of tackling sexual and domestic abuse within the wider context of supporting vulnerable people and keeping them safe.
An Garda Síochána continues to give priority to those who are at risk of domestic abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic through a targeted operation, “Operation Faoiseamh”.
A public awareness campaign has also been launched, in partnership with the community and voluntary sector, to publicise the support which is still available. The campaign website www.stillhere.ie includes up to date information on domestic abuse and sexual violence, as well as information on the services and supports which are available to victims.