Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Part of the reform agenda is to provide updated and consolidated domestic violence legislation. Domestic violence legislation is now contained in more than one main Act. Piecemeal changes have been made to the legislation and it is important that it be consolidated. It is important to introduce additional reforms.

It is, of course, important that victims of domestic violence, whether perpetrated by a spouse or cohabitant or directed towards the child, be aware that there are remedies within our court system to allow one obtain a protection order, safety order or, in appropriate cases, a barring order. Protection orders can be granted on an ex parte basis. I appreciate, however, that the Deputy is raising the issue of obtaining some protection at weekends. The Garda is available to provide protection against domestic violence. The Garda's policy on domestic-violence intervention clearly outlines the procedures to be adopted by all members of the force. In cases of domestic violence, the Garda has a pro-arrest policy to protect spouses or partners and their families. It also gives advice on local support services.

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. I appreciate that, in a Topical Issue debate, one cannot deal with the matter comprehensibly. However, I am fully aware of the concerns raised by the Deputy and we will do our best to ensure they are properly addressed.

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