Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers will move the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person (Amendment) (Stalking) Bill to second stage in Seanad today (22 September 2021). The Bill seeks to introduce a standalone offence of ‘stalking’ into lrish law by providing for a specific offence of stalking characterised by ‘repeated, unwanted behaviour that occurs as a result of fixation or obsession and causes alarm, distress or harm to the victim and to provide for related matters.’
Commentating on the Bill, Senator Chambers said, “Today during Fianna Fáil private members time in the Seanad, I will move the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person (Amendment) (Stalking) Bill to second stage.
“The crime of stalking has a very severe and long-lasting impact on the victim long after the situation has ended. The current harassment laws do not adequately cover the seriousness of the crime of stalking or the impact on the victim.
“We must listen to victims and take their lead in framing the law in this area. I have worked closely with Una Ring and Eve McDowell, the co-founders of Stalking Ireland, to bring this legislation to the Seanad.
“By introducing this new law and making stalking a criminal offence we are sending a strong message to any future stalker of the seriousness of the crime and the penalty that will ensue.”
