James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will not dwell on this much further other than to say the Minister is correct about the role of community gardaí, which has been expanded in recent years. There is a sensitivity and awareness of the issues, particularly in domestic situations. I am thinking in particular of the Garda personnel in Naas, including Superintendent Oliver Henry, Garda Gary Cogan, Garda Shane Smith and others, who have responded so well and have really been to the fore in community policing and engaging with, and getting to know, people in those situations and the dynamics that apply.

I am sure that is replicated in every district in the country. That is part of the solution, along with all the things the Minister has mentioned. A societal, educational and attitudinal shift is required here. It has taken us a couple of millennia but better late than never.

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