Six new garda units to investigate sexual abuse and domestic violence become operational today.
The divisions are in Dublin south central, Kerry, Kilkenny, Galway, Waterford and Limerick.
The Divisional Protective Services Units are specifically tasked with investigating sexual crime, child abuse and domestic violence with the aim of delivering a more professional approach to these sensitive types of investigations.
The units form part of the Garda Siochana’s modernisation and renewal programme and brings the number of specialised units in the country to 10.
Another 19 units will be set up in the remaining garda divisions throughout the year.
Training for officers who will work in these areas is already underway.
The first module, on Sexual Crime investigation, includes input from victims of sexual abuse.
