An Garda Síochána
As part of their training, all Garda members are trained to treat victims of crime with dignity. Following the Homicide, a Family Liaison Officer will be assigned to the case.
Over the last few years, An Garda Siochana has trained over 250 Family Liaison Officers (FLO) and they have been deployed in every district around the country.
Family Liaison officers are appointed to keep victims’ families informed of the progress of the investigation and to ensure that they are afforded appropriate and relevant emotional, psychological, information and practical support.
If for any reason you are not fully satisfied or have any enquiries on any aspect of the treatment of victims of crime by members of the Garda Síochána,
Contact the Victim Support Unit at:
Inspector Lorraine Stack
Crime Victims and Family Liaison Office
Harcourt Square
Harcourt Street
Dublin 2
Tel: +353 1 6663802
Fax: +353 1 6663801
E-mail: community_relations@garda.ie
The FLO dealing with your case must explain the investigation process to you and make sure that you are kept informed about the progress of the investigation, including whether a suspect is charged or cautioned.
If you are unable to communicate in Irish or English the Gardai will provide free translation services. You must also be told about the Victim Support services.
When a suspect is charged the Gardai will tell you:
- Whether the accused is in custody or on bail and the conditions attached to the bail
- The time, date and location of the court hearings of the charges against the accused
- The prosecution process involved, if you are likely to be called as a witness and the help available through the Crime Victim’s Helpline
- The circumstances where a Judge may ask for a victim impact statement
- Your entitlement to court expenses
- The final outcome of the Criminal Trial
More information about the role of the Garda and the new developments in their victim support services and networks are available from the Garda Charter for Victims of crime:
http://www.garda.ie/Documents/User/victims_charter_flyer_english.pdf
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