Gardaí prioritise domestic violence support
Previous victims of domestic violence across Cork will be contacted by gardaí to offer reassurance and support as the country adheres to temporary lockdown restrictions.
An Garda Síochána announced yesterday, 28 October, the commencement of another phase of Operation Faoiseamh. This third phase will once again see An Garda Síochána prioritise citizens vulnerable to and victims of domestic abuse.
This phase will see An Garda Síochána reaching out and making contact with previous victims to provide reassurance, support and to offer the assistance of local and specialised resources. There will also be a renewed focus on the enforcement of court orders and the prosecution of offenders. Gardaí were also keen to stress that travel limits do not apply in the case of domestic violence or to escape a risk of harm.
It comes as there’s been an 18 per cent year on year increase in calls for assistance in respect of domestic related issues between 2019/2020, as of 19 October.An Garda Síochána said that it continues to treat all instances of domestic abuse as a “priority” and once again re-enforced its commitment to keeping people safe. The vulnerable and victims of abuse will continue to receive the highest priority response, Garda HQ said yesterday.
An Garda Síochána will continue to liaise with and support its partners in State and non-State agencies. Speaking in advance of the start of phase three of Operation Faoiseamh, Detective Chief Superintendent Declan Daly, Garda National Protective Services Bureau said: “Prior to the commencement of Operation Faoiseamh I assured those victims experiencing domestic abuse that An Garda Síochána were available to assist you in this difficult time.
“An Garda Síochána are mindful of the fear and concern some in our community may have at this time. I wish to take this opportunity to re-emphasise our commitment to protect the most vulnerable in society. Operation Faoiseamh has been established to ensure you are safe, if you feel threatened or are in fear please contact us and we will respond quickly and robustly.”
He added: “If you are a victim of abuse or you know of a family member or friend who is a victim of such abuse, that information is important to us and I ask that you make contact with An Garda Síochána. If you require urgent assistance or support, please call 999 or 112, we are there to listen to help and to protect.”
Women’s Aid helpline – 1800-341900 Cuanlee Refuge helpline – 021-4277698 Visit safeireland.ie for a list of other helplines.