A directory of information for people bereaved by murder or manslaughter will be launched in Dublin today by the Advocates for Victims of Homicide group (AdVIC).
It was founded in April last year by representatives of 11 families who had members killed. It has an executive committee of eight, with a membership of 60 families affected by murder and manslaughter. It holds its first annual general meeting in Dublin this afternoon.
Annie Mulvaney, whose son Brian was murdered in Templeogue, Dublin in 2000, last night said the directory was aimed at families trying to cope with the loss of a loved one by homicide. It includes information, advice and contacts that they would need.
The directory, which will be launched today by RTÉ journalist Barry Cummins, includes sections on the rights and entitlements of families affected by killings, dealing with the aftermath of homicide, and the role of each relevant agency in the criminal justice system. It provides contact information as well as listing voluntary support services available. It also offers advice on dealing with the media.
Ms Mulvaney said the group welcomed the proposal by Minister for Justice Michael McDowell to review some of the principles underpinning criminal trials in Ireland. "We hope that AdVIC and other victim support groups will be invited to submit their ideas and proposals."
