5km restriction does not apply to victims of domestic violence – Carroll MacNeill

For those who find themselves in situations of domestic violence or coercive control, essential services are open to support them throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, Vice Chair of the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party, said that as people have been asked once again to stay at home, for some, home may not be the safest option.

Reiterating the message of the Government’s Still Here campaign, the Dún Laoghaire TD said, “The message I want to communicate today is clear: if your home isn’t safe, support is still here.

“You are allowed to travel outside your 5km and help is readily available to you. Domestic violence services throughout the country are open and operating.

“Domestic abuse is a violent, psychological and deeply personal crime, and it continues to be one of the biggest threats to women and children during this pandemic.

“Earlier this week we saw the publication of Safe Ireland’s report Tracking the Shadow Pandemic.  The report highlighted the continued threat of domestic abuse during Covid-19, with calls to domestic violence services up 25% over the pandemic period.

“Safe Ireland’s report also showed that almost 3,500 women contacted a domestic violence service for the first time during the March – August period.

“Fine Gael is committed to tackling domestic violence; to do more to support victims — both men and women — and also to be tougher on the perpetrators of these horrific crimes.

“An increase of €2.7 million was announced last month as part of Budget 2021 to combat domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. But we need to see the consistent provision of funds, in a timely manner, to our partner domestic violence support service providers to make sure that they have the tools they need to support victims.

“I am in constant discussion with domestic violence outreach organisations and support services, and it’s clear that the Covid period has shone a light on violence and manipulation like never before” concluded Deputy Carroll MacNeill.