Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 321: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to an initiative by a group (details supplied) whereby a number of Gardaí work with a local domestic violence frontline service for a fortnight involving direct engagement with victims including for example sitting in on meetings between the service and women in crisis situations thereby contributing to a better understanding within An Garda Síochána of the experiences of victims and the reason they can be reluctant to report abuse; and if he will take steps to replicate this initiative across the State. [7184/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I understand that, as part of Garda Student training, student Gardaí deployed in the Mayo Division are placed with the voluntary organisation in question for a two week period. Such placements are already a well-established element of the social studies training module for student Gardaí. The Government is very committed to tackling domestic violence. In June, 2007 the Government established Cosc, the National Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence, with a remit to ensure the delivery of a well co-ordinated "whole of Government" response to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. As part of its remit Cosc facilitates the development of strategies and services in relation to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in line with best international practice. This involves mapping current service standards as well as sourcing, disseminating and, in due course, facilitating the implementation of best practice in relation to the services. Cosc is working closely with all stakeholders in this area, including An Garda Síochána, to maximise prevention of these crimes, the protection of victims and the improvement of services to those affected.