Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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1112. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider introducing an annual victim survey, similar to the Crime Survey of England and Wales which records all types of crimes experienced by people, including those crimes that may not have been reported to An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11134/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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Understanding and improving the experience of all victims engaging with the criminal justice system is a priority for me. I am acutely conscious that coming forward to report an offence can be a traumatic and daunting experience for victims. It is crucial that victims feel heard, supported and empowered throughout the process. My Department is undertaking various measures to enhance our understanding of victims experiences, to ensure we have comprehensive policies and support systems in place.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) carries out periodic Crime and Victimisation Surveys, the most recent of which was published in 2020 in respect of surveys conducted in 2019. I am informed that they will be repeating the survey again in Quarter 3 of this year. The CSO is currently finalising the questionnaire for the 2025 iteration and has consulted widely with stakeholders in determining the content. The results of this survey are expected to be published by the middle of 2026.

In relation to sexual violence, the Sexual Violence Survey 2022, commissioned by my Department, was published by the CSO in April 2023 and provides high quality national prevalence data on sexual violence. It plays a vital role in understanding victims’ experiences and shaping better support systems. In addition, the development of a prevalence survey on domestic violence is underway and will provide further insights to improve responses to those affected by abuse.

In 2022, my Department established the Victim’s Forum for state, social and community groups to discuss how best to work together to meet the needs of victims. The Forum is co-chaired by a representative of the sector and a senior official from my Department. The structure of the forum is designed to encourage attendants to address issues in relation to strengthening national coordination, awareness raising, and protection of victims, review of legislation, service provision and referral of victims between agencies as necessary for access to services.