Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 876: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the need for an independent confidential therapeutic support for all members of An Garda Síochána and their families, having regard to the high level of stress and trauma currently associated with membership of the Garda force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11795/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that there are various support structures in place for members of An Garda Síochána at present to assist them in a confidential manner when they experience acute stress or trauma associated with their work.

The support structures in place include Peer support, support from Employee Assistance Officers of the Employee Assistance Service and the support of the Occupational Health Service within An Garda Síochána. The Employee Assistance Officers are highly trained and skilled and can refer members to appropriately trained counsellors when necessary.

The Occupational Health Service can also refer members to clinical psychologists and a panel of independent expert psychiatrists who have an understanding of police work. The Occupational Health Service is manned by two specialist occupational physicians who also liaise with the members usual GPs and treating doctors.