Joan Collins
Question:598. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí assigned to tackle child pornography exclusively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31558/14]
View answerTuesday, 15 July 2014
Questions (598)
Written answers
I have been advised by the Garda Commissioner that all members of An Garda Síochána are tasked with the investigation of criminal activity.
Investigations and complaints are normally investigated in the Garda District where the report was received and/ or an investigation commences.
Members of An Garda Síochána who are investigating child pornography can avail of the assistance of specialised units within An Garda Síochána in relation to the investigation of these offences (e.g. the examination of computer and digital media which is suspected to contain child abuse material, is carried out by the Computer Crime Unit attached to the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation).
There is a specialist unit which is part of the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation with responsibility to investigate child pornography including assisting with reports and investigations that have an international dimension. This unit is lead by an Inspector, with a Sergeant and five Gardaí.