James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister of State to the House. It is to be hoped that the Domestic Violence (Amendment) Bill, 2002, will copperfasten protection for victims of this insidious but extremely prevalent blot on family life. Concerns widely raised about the Domestic Violence Act, 1996, must be urgently addressed. Like other Members, I would like to have more time to debate this Bill but I see that it is important to get it passed before the Christmas recess.

Domestic abuse is often shrouded in secrecy. Many couples, especially in rural areas, live their married lives in a more discreet and less open way than those in urban areas. They can be the silent victims of abuse as they feel hidden away from the world outside. In a sense they are the living affirmation of the hidden nature of abuse. They are unable to confide in outsiders or other members of their families. It is often the case that the true picture of a life of hell is not revealed until after the death of the bullying partner. This is sad but it is also unacceptable.