Aideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I was about to make the point that it was interesting to see how law that will come before this House can so easily be translated into everyday language. It is striking to see that somebody with an intellectual disability in this country does not have the same right to a relationship as somebody without an intellectual disability. It is wonderful to see this legislation before the House, but we must also realise that fundamental issues of equality in our society still have to be dealt with.

Senator Bacik referred to the report by SAFE Ireland which indicated that almost 700 people, including women and children, were homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness on one day, 5 November 2013. It was more shocking to realise that 70% of cases of physical and verbal violence against women and children are not reported. It has been my experience that one of the main reasons women remain in unsafe situations and are sometimes virtual prisoners in their homes is because they find it difficult to access suitable housing supports. That is because they may happen to be joint owners of a home and, in many cases, those homes are in mortgage arrears and subject to repossession hearings. Although I know we have had a debate on domestic violence in the past, I support the call for a further debate because there is more to be said on the subject. In addition, more can certainly be done about the matter, so I ask the Leader to arrange for such a debate.