Ms Nadette Foley:

The EU victims’ directive mentions three categories of victims with specific protection needs – those under 18 years, victims of sexual crime and victims of hate crime. In regard to these categories there is an obligation for new legislation to comply with the victims’ directive. That part of it is specific. On page 3 we have a wider formulation covering some of the categories in equality legislation. Over and above the obligations of the victims’ directive, there are sub-categories of victims. Victims are all individuals. Given the specific sub-categories, it is important for the Garda, the Probation Service, court staff and those involved in reparation or community service processes to be fully informed and trained to deal with the specific sub-categories of victims.