Joe Flaherty (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

At the outset I commend both Ministers on their early work and immediate impact in what is a difficult area. Covid-19 and the ancillary restrictions have brought the issue of domestic violence sharply into focus. The reality is that no community or parish has been immune. In Longford, the team at Longford Women's Link provides a first-rate support service. It has seen referrals and contacts spiral during the past year. September and August in 2019 saw the team deal directly with 94 cases. Yet, this year has seen a near 50% increase. Over the same two months the team has dealt with 140 cases. Unfortunately, that is heading towards three cases per day. That only reflects those victims who have been able to come forward. Unfortunately, there is a silent majority of mothers and sisters who are being subjected to violence, intimidation, coercion as well as mental, physical and online abuse. We welcome the launch of the dedicated protected persons unit in the Longford Roscommon Garda division. The unit is providing an important, informed and victim-focused service and support.

Unfortunately, the statistics show that our mothers and sisters are among the least likely in Europe to come forward and report crimes of domestic abuse. A victim blaming culture is often cited as the reason for this. There is an urgent need for cultural change in how crimes of this nature are viewed. I believe the consequences of Covid-19 have given all the agencies working in this area an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and difficulties facing victims in coming forward. Tusla is undertaking a strategic review of emergency accommodation for victims of domestic violence. This is a critical issue for us in Longford, where there is no dedicated refuge. Instead, victims from throughout the midlands are dependent on the excellent Esker House facility in Athlone. However, at that facility there are only four family units. I hope the review will provide insight into the current distribution of services and unmet needs. Certainly, based on the figures reported to us from Longford Women's Link, the region needs a dedicated refuge with the necessary facilities and supports for families caught in this nightmare.

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