Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 268: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the services available to women who have been victims of a sexual assault; the plans he has to improve them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2412/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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As the Deputy will be aware, a key service required by women who have been victims of a sexual assault is medical treatment and counselling and these are the responsibility of the relevant health board. The services for which my Department has responsibility relate mainly to the civil and criminal justice systems. I can assure the Deputy that any sexual assault reported to the Garda Síochána is fully investigated and, subsequently, a file is forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions for a direction as to whether a prosecution should proceed.

As regards any need the victim might have for legal advice, the Legal Aid Board offers legal advice and, in certain circumstances, representation to complainants in cases of serious sexual assault. In addition, the Department has provided funding to the Rape Crisis Network for work of this nature. Following recent discussions with the Rape Crisis Network and other victims' organisations, other initiatives are also under consideration.