Question
Could you Chief Constable outline any work that is being undertaken throughout neighbourhood teams or the public protection branch that enables female only operational services (such as interviews, responders) particularly when it comes to domestic or sexual abuse.
Answer
There is not currently any work being undertaken around the provision of female-only operational services within Public Protection Branch and the broader Neighbourhood Teams.
However, as a victim-focused organisation when there is need or a request for a victim to speak with a female officer then this is facilitated, especially when it relates to domestic or sexual abuse investigations.
Whenever a victim or witness requests to speak to an officer of a particular gender identity, every effort is made to meet this request and to be mindful of the need to treat victims and witness with respect, compassion and sensitivity.
Nuala McAllister MLA - Alliance