Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)
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Question 409: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will ensure training in the way to deal with violence against women is made an integral part of the training of all members of the Garda Síochána, the Judiciary, and other statutory agencies working with the justice system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39102/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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All the organisations under the Department's aegis ensure their staff receive the training they need to meet their responsibilities. In particular, all gardaí receive training on the investigation of cases of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault from experienced Garda personnel, assisted by other professionals such as psychologists, doctors, social workers and also experts from the various non-governmental organisations. In addition, there are core programmes on violence at the Garda in-service training schools with input from those with appropriate expertise, which cover comprehensively crimes of violence against women.

The Judiciary is independent in the exercise of its functions under the law and the Constitution. The Judicial Studies Institute was established in 1996 to provide any necessary training and education. My role in this regard is to support any programmes put in place by the institute through funding made available in the courts Vote, administered by the Courts Service.