Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I support the amendment. The term competent presumes that one is suitably trained but I draw attention to the fact that the Council framework decision on the standing of victims in criminal proceedings recognises the importance of this issue. In the preamble sections 10 and 11 state:

(10) The involvement of specialised services and victim support groups before, during and after criminal proceedings is important.

(11) Suitable and adequate training should be given to persons coming into contact with victims, as this is essential both for victims and for achieving the purposes of proceedings.

Even the framework decision recognised the importance of the points Senator Bacik raised in this amendment.