Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 198: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the protocols for the gardaí when a person on the sex offenders register comes to live in a neighbourhood and in particular when there are young children living close by; if particular precautions are taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40851/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Sex Offenders Act 2001 contains a comprehensive series of provisions aimed at protecting children and other persons. The Act makes persons convicted of a range of sexual offences subject to notification requirements under its Part 2. The provisions of the Act also extend to any offenders convicted abroad of the same range of sexual offences who enter the State.

The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Investigation Unit of the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation is responsible for the monitoring of persons subject to the provisions of the Act. This Unit is supported by a nominated Inspector in each Garda Division, who is provided with all information relating to offenders resident in their area. The Unit maintains all information relating to persons who have obligations under the Act, and this information is updated on a regular basis.

Once a person becomes subject to the legislation he or she is informed by a member of An Garda Síochána of his or her obligations under the Act. An Garda Síochána works closely with the Probation Service in assessing, monitoring and managing potential risks. An assessment of all offenders who have obligations under the Act is currently being carried out. Should they arise, child protection issues are raised with the health authorities, as set out in the Children First Guidelines. Following the enactment of the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act 2008, there is a power of arrest for persons who do not comply with their obligations under the Act.

A member of An Garda Síochána, not below the rank of Chief Superintendent, may apply to the Circuit Court for an order against any sex offender whose behaviour in the community gives An Garda Síochána reasonable cause for concern that such an order is necessary to protect the public from serious harm.