Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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95. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he has given consideration to the best form of study to establish the true level of sexual violence in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51697/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The terms of reference and membership of a scoping group to consider the availability of data and make recommendations on a study to identify the prevalence of sexual abuse and violence in Ireland today and emerging trends was considered by the Cabinet Committee on Social Policy at a meeting on 16 November. Ms Dorothy Watson, Associate Research Professor, Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) and adjunct Professor of Sociology at Trinity College Dublin has accepted an invitation to Chair the Group. Professor Brendan Whelan, expert in survey methods and ex-Director of the ESRI has also accepted an invitation to join the group.  The following organisations have nominated a senior official to the group:

- Department of Health

- Department of Children and Youth Affairs

- Tusla

- Central Statistics Office

My Department will also be represented on the group.

A tender process is in train to secure the membership of two academics with appropriate expertise in qualitative and quantitative data gathering in respect of sexual abuse and violence.

The group will consult with key external groups and organisations as appropriate.

Once the final membership of the group is available its membership and terms of reference will be published.