Protection or special assistance for victims

Individual Garda assessments completed by investigating Gardai highlight whether a victim or witness will require any special measures, either during the investigation or, if the report goes to court. This may include protection measures where an interview is conducted or, the use of video conferencing in courtrooms. 

If you, or others close to you, are harassed or threatened in any way during an investigation or court appearance, you should contact An Garda Síochána immediately. 

An Garda Síochána understands that many victims have a range of varying needs and requirements so we are on hand to provide special assistance in the following areas: 

Special Needs 

If you have any form of disability we will take your specific needs or requirements into account. Please let any Garda know if there is any particular need or support that you consider necessary to assist An Garda Síochána in delivering a policing service to you. 

New communities 

If you are not fluent in English or Irish, we will provide a free interpreter service so that you will receive the same quality of service, as far as possible, as any victim of crime. 

Older people 

If you are an older person who has been a victim of crime we will take all reasonable steps to protect and reassure you. We will also offer you advice about home security and your safety in the community. 

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities 

If you are a member of the lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender community we will manage your case with sensitivity. Where appropriate, we will also advise you of the services of the Garda Diversity Officer within An Garda Síochána. 

Tourist 

If you are a visitor to Ireland and you are the victim of a crime we will take your statement immediately and we will also, with your consent, refer you to the services of the Irish Tourist Assistance Service, telephone number: 01 666 9354. 

If you report a crime to us that occurred outside Ireland we will forward the report without delay to the appropriate authority in the country where the crime occurred. 

Crimes committed by young people 

If you are the victim of a crime committed by a young person:

•we will inform you if the person who carried out the crime is a young person.

•we will take account of any views that you, as a victim, may wish to make when a young person is being considered for the Diversion Programme. However, the decision to admit a young person to the Programme remains a decision for the Director of the Programme.

•we may invite you to be present if we are cautioning the young person.

•we may invite you to a Garda Family Conference.

•we will uphold your interests as a victim at a Garda Family Conference, whether you are present or not.