An Garda Síochána has launched its new online hate crime reporting facility.
The public can access the new, non-emergency online hate crime reporting mechanism via www.garda.ie.
Online hate crime
Hate crime can be reported to An Garda Síochána safely and securely and will allow for the appropriate response and support to be provided.
According to a statement from An Garda Síochána, 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 Gardaí.
Dedicated members of the GNDIU will examine reports and ensure appropriate action is taken to record and respond to reports.
‘Not everyone wants to go to a Garda station to make reports’
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.”
Hilman highlighted that the impact that hate crime can have on individual victims, their families, the groups to which they belong, and wider society “can be devastating”.
“Although diversity and integration touch on many different areas in relation to policing, the manner in which An Garda Síochána challenges the prevalence of hate crime in our society can be seen as reflective of our commitment and ability to protect the rights of those from diverse or minority communities.”
Furthermore, superintendent Michael Corbett, of the Garda National Community Engagement Bureau added:
“Hate crime is significantly underreported in Ireland.”
“Don’t suffer in silence. If you have been the victim of a hate crime, please report it to An Garda Siochana. We are here to help you. Let’s stop hate together.”
‘Let’s stop hate together’
Ms Paula Fagan, CEO of LBGT Ireland and member of the Garda National Diversity Forum, said:
“I am delighted to join An Garda Síochána today to support the launch of their online hate crime reporting function.”
“This is a very welcome support to the victims of hate crime and the wider community. Let’s stop hate together.”
