Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I begin with some alarming statistics on domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. I ask that, as I share these figures, the Minister of State and everyone else considers the human stories behind each number. Globally, one in three women encounter partner violence. This shocking figure equates to more than 1 billion women across the world. Furthermore, 38% of all women murdered globally are at the hands of intimate partners. Now, let us look closer to home.

In Ireland in 2022, Women’s Aid recorded an unprecedented 31,229 contacts, the highest ever in the organisation's history. A heart-wrenching Irish Mirror investigation recently revealed that the number of women and girls tragically killed in Ireland nearly doubled in just a year. Let these figures sink in. One in five young women and one in 11 young men have faced the horrors of intimate partner abuse. One in three Irish women have confronted psychological torment from someone they trust. One in four women in our communities have endured violence, be it from partners or others. A staggering four out of ten Irish adults have been victims of sexual violence, and 41% of our Irish women - our mothers, sisters, and daughters - know someone within their close circle who has suffered from intimate partner violence. These are not just numbers. These are real people; real men and real women in our communities suffering silently, often behind closed doors. We need to question why, especially when Ireland offers so much support. There is, of course, a profound psychological hurdle.

Studies indicate it can often take up to seven attempts for a survivor to finally break free and leave an abusive partner. Among the many organisations combating this issue is the Saoirse women's refuge in my constituency. It stands out to me because its mission is particularly inspiring. It is envisioning a society where domestic violence is neither normalised nor neglected. It provides sanctuaries and safe spaces where victims can find solace and strength. Our Government understands this crisis too.

Our Minister for Justice, Deputy McEntee, has spearheaded the creation of a dedicated agency exclusively focused on domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. This initiative is more than welcome; it is essential. This pioneering agency promises an holistic approach overseeing the execution of strategic plans, providing financial assistance, expanding refuge accommodations and, crucially, launching awareness campaigns. By consulting experts and those who have suffered first-hand, we will address this problem comprehensively.

First, we need and intend to double the number of refuge units. Second, we will amplify support systems for victims. Additionally, our upcoming Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Human Trafficking) Bill 2023 will focus on updating consent laws and introducing mechanisms to identify victims and culprits of human trafficking. Recent legislation has also been enacted, including laws targeting stalking, non-fatal strangulation and, with Coco’s Law, the unjust sharing of intimate images.

While these measures are welcome, it is imperative to highlight that no country has successfully eradicated this issue yet. That is why we need to be tougher on this. The statistics I shared are likely just the tip of the iceberg. We must transform social mindsets, channel resources and address this issue. That is why I wholeheartedly back the Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Agency Bill. Combined with our Government's zero tolerance strategy, I am hopeful we can shine a light for countless Irish people suffering in silence. By increasing penalties and dedicating resources, we are sending a really clear message: enough is enough.

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