Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 440: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to an incident in which persons were chased and assaulted (details supplied); if his attention has further been drawn to the criticism of the Garda response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26501/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that on the night of 24 September 2005 gardaí on patrol in the city centre were made aware that an assault had taken place in the vicinity of the venue to which the Deputy refers. Gardaí attended the scene and commenced an investigation. One person was arrested, charged, and will be brought before the courts in due course. I am further informed that no formal complaint has been made criticising the response of the gardaí. However, local Garda management have become aware of criticisms contained on a website regarding the Garda response to this incident, and these are being investigated.

The policing requirements in areas frequented by members of the gay and lesbian community are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Garda authorities to enable them to respond to any particular eventuality should the need arise. Furthermore, the Garda authorities have for several years been in regular contact with those who represent the gay perspective on a variety of issues and continue to maintain a positive relationship with the gay community.

I also understand that 14 gardaí have received special familiarisation training and have been appointed as liaison officers to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community. These gardaí are based in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Kilkenny, Galway, Longford, Westmeath, Louth and also in the Garda domestic violence and sexual assault unit and the community relations section. The Garda authorities have also established a national advisory panel, which includes members who represent the gay perspective, to assist and inform the Garda on matters concerning their community.