Holly Cairns (Cork South-West, Social Democrats)

I am hugely impressed by the courage shown by Niamh Kelly. Last year, she was viciously attacked by her ex-boyfriend and stabbed 50 times, leaving her with life-changing injuries. Yesterday, he was jailed for 14 years and Niamh has bravely spoken out. She has encouraged other women in toxic relationships to leave and get help. I welcome the measures the justice Minister brought to Cabinet today, including plans to create a domestic violence register, which I hope will include stalking and coercive control, as well as physical abuse. I would like to know why the Government is putting a 12-month pause on legislation that my colleague, Senator Patricia Stephenson, has introduced.

Her Bill would create a safe passage travel scheme for survivors of domestic abuse and their children. This would entitle them to free travel for three months while they try to rebuild their lives. This is a small measure that would make a huge difference. Does the Government support this Bill and, if so, why is it delaying it by 12 months?

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