22/11/2012

Charity Calls For Tightening Of Domestic Violence Laws

Domestic violence campaigners have called on the government to toughen legislation to fully protect vulnerable women who are victimised.

Women’s Aid have said some sufferers are invisible and not protected under the current legal system.

The charities director, Margaret Martin, said changes needed include a 24/7 on-call system for emergency barring orders and extending the eligibility for legal protection to women dating a man and not just living with their partners.

Women's Aid is also calling for state funding for domestic violence services, which has dropped by 19% since 2008, to be protected in Budget 2013.

"Every day in Ireland women are beaten, raped and abused by those closest to them, their boyfriends, husbands and partners," said Ms Martin.

"One in five women in the Republic of Ireland experience domestic violence and it can affect any woman from any walk of life.

"We understand how difficult it is for women experiencing domestic abuse to talk about what is happening.

"Many women are afraid that they will not be believed or that they will blamed for the abuse. Others struggle to find the words to describe their situation.

"All too often, women feel alone and isolated, unaware that help is available or unable to make sense of what is being done to them."

(H)


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