David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 216: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reasons the Garda Síochána did not record domestic violence incidents in the past two years; if his attention was drawn or he gave his consent to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40600/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that all criminal incidents reported to them are recorded. Incidents may be recorded on the crime recording system PULSE on the basis of the criminal offence they disclose, which may range from homicide to minor assault, whether related to domestic violence or otherwise. I understand that instructions relating to the recording of incidents involving domestic violence were issued by the Garda authorities earlier this year and the operation of this policy will be continually monitored.

Statistics relating to the number of breaches of Court Orders issued under domestic violence legislation have been published in the Garda Annual Report since 2004. The legislation governing the exemption does not allow for the financial or individual circumstances of the owner in question to be taken into account. Similarly, as the daughter does not appear to be a dependent relative her use of the property would not be taken into account. The Deputy should contact the Revenue Commissioners if he would like more specific information on the extent to which the exemption would apply to the homeowner in question.