Specialised Protective Services Unit rolled out in Limerick garda division

A PILOT scheme which saw the establishment of a Protective Services Unit in the Limerick garda division last year has been rolled out permanently as part of the garda modernisation programme.

Led by a detective sergeant, the unit includes a number of specially trained detectives and specialist garda interviewers.

Protective Services Units, which are being rolled out across the country, will deliver a consistent and professional approach to the investigation of specialised crime types, including sexual crime, child abuse and domestic abuse.

A total of 10 divisional units have now been established across nine Garda Divisions and training is underway of garda personnel.

Members of the Limerick DPSU are based at Henry Street garda station and work independently to the ‘normal’ garda units. 

As part of the expansion of the initiative, a training programme is now underway at the Garda Training College in Templemore. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Declan Daly, Garda National Protective Services, says the roll-out of additional units will ensure a consistent level of service by An Garda Síochána to the victims of Sexual crime and Domestic Abuse.  

“They are a welcome and valuable addition to Garda Divisions and will add to the service we provide,” he said..