Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 187: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [44329/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that if the matter referred to by the Deputy constitutes a criminal offence, it will be investigated by them. A report can be made to the Garda authorities at the victim's local Garda Station, where an investigation will be commenced. If the circumstances warrant a prosecution, the abuser will be taken before the courts. An Garda Síochána investigates all incidents of domestic violence, including reports received from a third party.

The Domestic Violence Act 1996 makes provision for the protection of a spouse and any children or other dependent persons, and of persons in other domestic relationships, whose safety or welfare requires it because of the conduct of another person in the domestic relationship concerned. A victim of such abuse can obtain a court order under the Act to ensure that the abuser desists from certain activity.

Information on a wide range of local services to assist victims of domestic and sexual abuse is available on the website of Cosc, the National office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and gender-based Violence, at www.cosc.ie. A number of non-governmental organisations provide assistance to victims of domestic violence. Women's Aid provides confidential support and information to women and children living with domestic violence who need emergency or ongoing support. Its freephone helpline is 1800 341 900. The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre provides telephone help and support to victims of rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and childhood sexual abuse. Its freephone helpline is 1800 778888.