Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is certainly prevalent throughout the world. Let us be clear about that. I agree with Deputy Coppinger about the importance of education.

The campaign takes account of the gendered nature of domestic violence and the proportion of advertisements and the campaign has been informed in that regard. More advertisements in the course of the campaign show violence against women. Equally, there is some domestic violence against men. That is reflected in the campaign as well.

I wish to assure Deputy Coppinger that this money is being spent carefully. A Europe-wide tender process was undertaken. The campaign will be reviewed as it develops. Certainly, it is open to views from Deputy Coppinger, other Members and the NGOs working in this area.

We need to continue to give resources in this area. It is clear from the crime statistics at present that crime is down in many areas in this country. However, we have turned a blind eye to this for far too long. Sexual assault, sexual violence and domestic violence crimes have increased. Often, they are linked to our attitudes to alcohol and drug usage.

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