Abuse probe gardai hailed
CHIEF’S PRAISE FOR CYBERCRIME OFFICERS
THE head of the Garda Cybercrime Bureau today praises his officers who have one of the toughest jobs in policing – investigating horrific child sexual abuse material.
Every day, his specially-trained detectives examine sickening photos and videos of children and even babies being subjected to physical and sexual abuse, but Det Chief Supt Paul Cleary says their welfare is vital to him – and he knows the importance of their work.
“I want my team to know I value them, and I want them to feel supported,” he says in a book celebrating 100 years of An Garda Siochana, out today.
In The Guardians, 100 Years of An Garda Siochana, Det
Chief Supt Cleary says his officers are given special counselling because of the job’s toll. He says: “The type of work that is done by the Bureau – in particular with child sexual abuse material – is unique in the area of policing.
“You need very strong public service values, and you need to show great resilience all day, every days whilst doing your job.” The senior officer, who is set to take a new position as an assistant commissioner in coming weeks, admits working as a child sexual abuse material investigator is not suitable for everyone.
Draining
He adds: “The work can be emotionally and psychologically draining. “The welfare of my staff is my top priority with enhanced counselling and 24-hour support services available to all.”
As well as a piece by Det Chief Supt Cleary, the 300-page book has almost 40 contributions about the force’s century of service to the people.