Denise Mitchell (Dublin Bay North, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Tonight's Bill seeks to introduce paid leave to victims of domestic violence, which should have been introduced years ago. Domestic violence services are being put under considerable pressure to meet the demand of people seeking to engage with them. That is very concerning to all of us. The failure to invest in these services in recent years and the cuts from a decade ago are still being felt across the sector, and they are being felt by many who need their help.

Victims presenting to services are being told there are no beds for them, as the Government still fails to meet its commitments under the Istanbul Convention. This Sinn Féin legislation provides for an entitlement to annual leave of up to ten days for domestic violence. This allows victims to take the time off work needed to seek support, find accommodation or attend court in a structured, supportive environment. It also addresses absenteeism and reduced productivity for employers. It may sound small but it will go some way towards supporting victims. In the programme for Government, there is a commitment to exploring the idea of paid leave for victims of domestic violence. I welcome the fact that the Government is not opposing the Bill this evening.

There is a stigma attached to domestic violence, and this has prevented many from speaking out and seeking help when they are stuck in an abusive relationship. We need to be having these conversations, and we need to be having them in our workplaces. Employers need to be more aware of how they can support employees who find themselves in desperate circumstances.

Along with this legislation, there should be additional steps to ensure victims are given the support and safe environment they need to rebuild their lives and take back control.

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