Robert Troy
Question:453 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the sourcing of suitable accommodation for the specialist victim interview suite at Mullingar. [9411/11]
View answerTuesday, 3 May 2011
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that, given the need for sensitivity and confidentiality in the investigation of certain crimes, there is a clear advantage from an investigative perspective for both An Garda Síochána and victims of such crimes in conducting interviews away from Garda stations.
Dedicated victim interview suites have therefore been established in six strategically chosen locations throughout the State, which are used by An Garda Síochána to record interviews with victims. Work is nearing completion on the establishment of a further facility. The suites are not attached to Garda stations, and it would not be appropriate for reasons of confidentiality to give details of their precise locations.
Consideration is being given to locating an additional facility in Mullingar. A decision whether to establish the facility will be taken in the context of the network of facilities already established and the financial resources available.