A SOUTHSIDE TD has praised the current tough storyline on Irish TV soap, Fair City, that tackles the issue of domestic violence.
Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor (FG) said the depiction of domestic violence in the Bishop family home, while difficult to watch, sends a message to those suffering abuse at the hands of a partner that help is at hand and that any abuse should be reported.
“Fair City has a long history of tackling the issue of domestic violence and abuse,
? Deputy Mitchell said.
“Not only does it deal with the abuse of women but it has also, in the past, tackled the issue of husbands falling victim to abuse at the hands of their wives.
“The storyline that centres on domestic abuse in the Bishop household and depicts a husband beating his wife and daughter will, sadly, strike a chord in many households across the country.
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Deputy Mitchell said that domestic abuse was the most under-reported, undocumented and un-prosecuted crime in the country, with the result that too many women are enduring horrific beatings, many on a regular basis, at the hands of husbands or boyfriends.
“While the support systems that are currently in place in Ireland to assist those who are in need of shelter are far from adequate, a number of reforms are underway to deal with family law cases and the administration of justice,
? Deputy Mitchell added.
“The in-camera rule is being overhauled to allow for greater transparency of family law cases and a referendum is being planned to provide a unified system of Family Courts later next year.
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Deputy Mitchell pointed out that services such as the Women’s Aid National Freephone Helpline (1800341900) are in place to provide support for those in need.
“It is vital that we encourage our sisters, mothers, aunts and girlfriends who are suffering abuse to come forward and to seek help in a bid to turn their lives around,
? she added.
“It is estimated that one in five women in Ireland will experience violence and abuse from an intimate partner at some stage in her life, so this is not an issue that is affecting just a small number.
“Women can fall victim to domestic violence, which may first manifest in subtle forms of intimidation and control, irrespective of class, race or religion.
“It is up to all of us to get the message out that striking a partner is never ok.
“I applaud shows such as Fair City for playing its part and addressing this difficult issue, especially for the men and women at the centre of abuse.
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