Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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73. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will report on the collaborative action she is taking with her colleagues in Government to address the growing number of recent physical attacks on vulnerable children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16892/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Any instance of an assault against a child, including where that child might be particularly vulnerable, is a cause of great concern. In that regard I can assure the Deputy that An Garda Síochána places an emphasis on tackling crimes against children as well as proactive cooperation with all relevant Departments, organisations and agencies to improve the safety of children. Children First National Guidance 2011 is adopted as Garda policy and interaction with Tusla (Child and Family Agency) is an integral part of that policy in relation to all investigations of child abuse, or when child protection issues arise generally. Special legislative provisions are in place with respect to the giving of evidence by children in certain criminal proceedings and An Garda Síochána and Tusla personnel have undergone joint and intensive training in specialised skills necessary for interviewing children, including where a child might be particularly vulnerable in some way. All of these arrangements are kept under ongoing review and any instance of assault or other abuse brought to Garda attention is fully investigated.

The Deputy will also be aware of the significant legislative measures introduced recently to strengthen child protection including the Criminal Justice (Withholding of Information on Offences against Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012, the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012 and the Children First Bill 2014. I will continue to work closely with my Government colleagues and all relevant agencies to advance these and related child protection measures.