n Garda Síochána launched the Garda Síochána Diversity and Integration Strategy, 2019 – 2021 in October 2019. The strategy has a significant focus on enhancing the identification, reporting, recording and investigating of Hate Crimes. It contains a working Hate Crime definition in line with best international practice, recognises the current and emerging diversity of our communities and aims to protect all diverse and minority groups in society.
In line with An Garda Síochána’s strategic commitments, the Garda National Diversity and Integration Unit, in conjunction with its Garda partners, have designed and developed a new, non-emergency online Hate Crime reporting mechanism which will be accessed via www.garda.ie. Hate Crime can be reported to An Garda Síochána in a safe and secure way and will allow for the appropriate response and support to be provided. This service will provide increased accessibility to the Garda Service, particularly for victims of Hate Crime who may have previously been reluctant to report to An Garda Síochána. All reports will be examined by dedicated members of the GNDIU, who will ensure appropriate action is taken to record and respond to reports.
The Role of the Unit
- Monitoring Hate Crime / Hate Related Incidents via PULSE / social and written media / third party referrals / complaints.
- Developing policy, strategy and operational guidelines in all related areas of Diversity.
- Advising and supporting investigators of Hate Crime / Hate Related Incidents.
- Providing training to Garda Diversity Officers.
- Liaising between members of the public and the relevant Garda or other service provider.
Speaking today, Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement said:
“Access to online reporting enables victims to report hate crime in a way they may feel more comfortable with. We understand that not everyone wants to go to a Garda station to make reports. This facility gives victims the opportunity to report non-emergency incidents to An Garda Síochána. I would urge anyone who feels they have been a victim of hate crime to report it to us. Let’s stop hate crime together.
Hate Crime Policy and Procedures documents have been developed by the Garda National Diversity and Integration Unit in conjunction with our Garda partners and are expected to be approved in the coming weeks.
DIVERSTY TRAINING