Ireland can be 'world leader' in dog assistance for survivors of sexual abuse 

The project could mean specially trained dogs would be able to stay in the video link room with a child while they give evidence, as well as other support functions.

The Special Rapporteur on Child Protection has said Ireland has the potential to become a "world leader" in assisting the needs of those who have suffered sexual abuse by using facility dogs to help them in the criminal justice system.

Last year, Children At Risk in Ireland (CARI) advertised for the part-time position of Court Accompaniment Officer and Secondary Dog Handler as part of its two-year pilot research project to assess the impact of a facility dog in mitigating trauma for children in the Irish Justice System.