'Extend Garda cautions' to people suffering from  mental illness, addiction or trauma

The High Level Task Force report strongly recommends the introduction of crisis intervention teams combining gardaí and health staff

The report found that a multi-agency approach was needed to implement a new Garda diversion policy to prevent vulnerable people with mental health difficulties becoming “inappropriately trapped” in the criminal justice system. File photo

The Garda adult caution scheme should be extended to people who are suffering from a mental illness, addiction or trauma in cases of minor crimes, a Government task force has said.

In addition, such people, who have previous criminal convictions, should be included in the scheme - which is typically available only for first-time offenders.