Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan and North Meath, Niamh Smyth, has called for greater supports for those who find themselves in situations of domestic violence.
Deputy Smyth commented, “The most recent Women’s Aid Annual Impact Report shows that the number of people who contacted their support service increased by over 40% last year compared to 2019.
“There were 29,717 domestic abuse contacts made with Women’s Aid in 2020 which is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to domestic abuse against women in Ireland.
“It is paramount that there are robust supports in place so that victims of domestic violence can access the services they need . This includes the delivery of women’s refuge centres right across the country. In Cavan-Monaghan for example, there is little to no provision to assist women trying to leave cases of domestic violence. This must be corrected and is something I have campaigned on for quite some time.
“I was proud to support the ratification of the Istanbul Convention in the Dáil in March 2019. The formal ratification of the Convention committed Ireland to taking measures to prevent violence against women, protecting victims of domestic violence, and prosecuting their perpetrators.
“Tackling domestic abuse is a top priority for my colleagues and I in Fianna Fáil. Having raised this issue in the Dáil, I know that this Government is fully committed to combating this type of violence and ensuring that anyone who is a victim of this type of abuse is empowered and supported to seek help.
“We now need strong legislation in place to support a robust system that provides a safe haven and refuge for those who are most vulnerable in our communities,” concluded Deputy Smyth.
