Paddy McHugh (Galway East, Independent)

I compliment the Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science, Deputy Haughey, on his appointment. This is the first time I have seen him in the Chamber since he took office.

This is a welcome debate of the utmost importance and I thank Sinn Féin for tabling the motion. It is important because victims of domestic violence, by and large, feel unable to highlight the issue. The home is where people expect a degree of security and believe they are among friends. It is, therefore, chilling to realise that the violence under discussion occurs in the home. It is startling that statistics suggest that one in five women in Ireland experience domestic violence. Lest the debate be focused on one gender, it is important to recognise that men and children also experience domestic violence.

As noted in the motion, gardaí recorded an average of 23 incidents of domestic violence daily in 2003 compared with an average of 11 other assaults recorded daily. This statistic indicates the extent of the problem. Given the magnitude of domestic violence and the sensitivity with which it is bound up, it is vital that resources, structures and supports are provided to adequately address it. Regrettably, this is not the case.

It is disgraceful that one third of all calls to the Women's Aid national telephone helpline went unanswered due to inadequate funding, especially when one considers that in many cases the advice given over the telephone by properly trained personnel can be invaluable. Many of those who experience domestic violence suffer in silence, often due to the perceived shame that attaches to this form of violence. Many people may be unable or unwilling to walk into a refuge as a first step and, therefore, require a process of steps. Making a telephone call can be that vital first step on the road to dealing with the problem. Some victims may not be physically able to make the journey to a centre. For these reasons and more, it is vital that a properly resourced, fully efficient helpline is provided. Such a helpline can be a lifeline.

Having overcome that first step, there must be a comprehensive support system in place for victims. However, there is also a shortage of refuges, which are vital if victims are to escape from the home and, consequently, the violence they have experienced. The statistics require no further analysis. What is needed now is positive action.

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