GARDAÍ INVOLVED IN investigating online child abuse have taken part in an international training course in conjunction with the US Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The training took place in Dublin this week and was aimed at improving the capability of officers to proactively investigate child exploitation in Ireland.

Participants included investigators from the Garda National Protective Services Bureau which was established last year. Part of its remit is the investigation of sexual crimes against children, including the production and distribution of child pornography.

Colleagues from within the FBI and the Police Service of Northern Ireland also took part in the training.

At a ceremony at the US embassy in Dublin to present certificates to participants, Assistant Commissioner Derek Byrne spoke of the “tireless” work of these units to combat child abuse.

He also praised the FBI for the assistance and training provided to gardaí on this and other occasions. He said it was reassuring that such police cooperation exists to combat what is an international crime.

Commenting on the collaboration, US Ambassador to Ireland, Kevin F O’Malley said: “It is truly commendable to see the FBI share its expert knowledge and skill with An Garda Síochána and the Police Service of Northern Ireland so that together we can combat this injustice and work to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment, free from abuse and neglect.”

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