Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 21 May 2024

Joint Committee On Children, Equality, Disability, Integration And Youth

Review of Barnahus Model for Young People who have Experienced Child Sexual Abuse: Discussion

Mr. Gerard Brophy:

There is a group. I know the Garda is involved in this in terms of the Central Criminal Court. We are looking at how these cases are being processed through the courts. We are anxious to use the videos that are done in a child-friendly environment. The use of intermediaries is key in this as well. I referred to that earlier. The Garda has been very supportive in getting hearings at an early date in the District Court in order that intermediaries can be appointed and disclosure can be done early. Again, we have a real child-friendly approach to justice. In the last year, we have had two cases go through Barnahus west. They have been able to give video evidence from a distance from Barnahus west. This allows the child to take a break, as appropriate, managed through the judge and the court system, and to be able to regulate themselves. This approach is much more child friendly and appropriate to their age and stage of development.