Galway branch of crime victims support group launched

By JACQUELINE HOGGE A NEW support group has been launched in Galway this week with the aim of offering emotional support and practical help to victims of crime. The Federation for Victim Assistance branch in the county has seven members, who have been trained to provide a confidential listening service and visits to those affected by crime. Mayor of County Galway Cllr Michael Maher attended the launch where he welcomed the federation.[private] The outgoing mayor promised the full support of his council colleagues for the work being undertaken by the branch and assured them their efforts would not go un-noticed at county council level. He added he was impressed that so many members from other branches had travelled to Galway for the launch and said it clearly showed the level of commitment of each and every member in helping the victims of crime, both in Galway and throughout the country. Patron of the Federation and former President of the European Parliament Pat Cox also attended the event at the Carlton hotel. He said he hoped the EU would push forward plans to set up minimum standards for victims of crime and that he looked forward to progress on the matter during the current parliament's term of office. For further information on the Galway branch, or if you have been affected by crime and seek assistance, call or text 083-1266222, email galwayfedva@gmail.com or check out the federation's facebook page.[/private]