Budget 2024 must address the 'epidemic' of Domestic Abuse

In 2022, the number of women killed in violent circumstances was the highest in 10 years. Between Q3 2021 and Q3 2022, 83 per cent of all recorded victims of sexual offences knew the reported suspect. In Ireland, 1 in every 6 women over the age of 15 have experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner. Services supported by Safe Ireland answer a reported 50,000 helpline calls each year, and provide direct support to 11,000 women and 3,500 children.

A Council of Europe report provides that there should be one place per 10,000 population for victims of DSGBV. Based on preliminary Census estimates of a population of 5,123,536, this would equate to 512 places. However we are falling far short of this target. The Programme for Government referred to an “epidemic” of domestic abuse. But as like any epidemic, adequate resources are needed to combat it. Government must meet their commitments under the Istanbul Convention and provide a further refuge spaces for victims of DSGBV. This would cost €181.5 million in Budget 2024. In addition, further service-level supports are needed for those experiencing domestic abuse who do not require residential  spaces. This would require a current allocation of €33m for service provision, training and legal supports. 

Budget Choices 2024 is available to download here.