Senator Bacik calls for Support to Women's Aid, and Changes to Domestic Violence Law

STATEMENT BY SENATOR IVANA BACIK

Labour Seanad Spokesperson for Justice, Equality & Law Reform
Wed 23rd June 2010

SENATOR BACIK CALLS FOR SUPPORT TO WOMEN'S AID, CHANGES TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LAW

Speaking in the Seanad today, Senator Ivana Bacik noted the publication of the 2009 annual statistics on domestic violence by Women's Aid, saying:

“The figures show worrying trends in the increase of technology-assisted abuse; and in the incidence of domestic violence against pregnant women. They also remind us of the important work that Women's Aid carry out in helping and supporting the victims of domestic violence. This deserves ongoing support. We need to ensure that they receive adequate resourcing so that their helpline does not have to turn away calls from victims seeking help.”

Calling for changes to the law on domestic violence, Senator Bacik said:

“We need to ensure that the law is sufficiently broad to cover all the victims of domestic violence – and currently we know that there are categories of victims who are suffering violence in intimate relationships, but who are not protected by our legislation. This needs to be amended as a matter of urgency.”

ENDS