A new domestic violence report calling for stronger supports, earlier intervention and changes across the justice system has been welcomed by Louth TD Paula Butterly.
Deputy Butterly is Leas-Cathaoirleach of the Joint Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, which published its report on Tackling Domestic and Gender-Based Violence on 9th July.
The report was developed following written submissions and a public hearing involving victims, survivors, frontline organisations and agencies working in the area of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
It sets out a wide range of recommendations aimed at improving how victims are protected and supported, from the point at which abuse is first recognised through to their experiences of the courts, policing, housing and support services.
Stronger support for victims
Among the recommendations are calls for more refuge accommodation, improved access to civil legal aid and better housing, financial and counselling supports.
The committee also wants domestic violence leave increased to 10 days and is calling for a more trauma-informed approach throughout the justice system.
Further recommendations include stronger bail laws in domestic violence cases, improved enforcement of protection and barring orders and additional training for Gardaí, members of the judiciary and legal professionals.
The report also recommends that Garda members under investigation for domestic or sexual violence should be suspended while the investigation is ongoing.
Deputy Butterly said the report reflected the experiences shared with the committee by victims, survivors and frontline services.
“Victims and survivors continue to bravely share their lived experiences on the understanding that doing so will help bring about meaningful change,” she said.
“We must ensure that their voices are heard and acted upon.”
Focus on prevention and online abuse
The committee has placed a strong emphasis on prevention, including earlier education in schools, third-level institutions and among young people.
It also highlights growing concern about technology-facilitated abuse, violent online content and the use of artificial intelligence to create or enable gender-based abuse.
Deputy Butterly said challenging the attitudes that allow domestic and gender-based violence to continue must form part of the wider response.
“Prevention and education must be at the heart of that effort, with earlier intervention to challenge harmful attitudes and greater action to address the damaging impact of harmful online content, including violent pornography and AI-enabled abuse,” she said.
She thanked those who shared their personal experiences and professional expertise with the committee, adding that the recommendations must now be treated as a government priority.
“This report represents an important step forward in creating a safer and more supportive society for victims and survivors,” Deputy Butterly said.
Read the full Report on Tackling Domestic and Gender-Based Violence.
