Donnelly concerned at rise of domestic abuse calls

Over 65,000 domestic abuse calls were received by An Garda Síochána in 2024, an 8.3% increase from the previous year.

These statistics were revealed after a parliamentary question was questioned by Sinn Féin TD Sorca Clarke.

Reacting to the statistics, fellow Sinn Féin TD Paul Donnelly said the figures are “shocking.”

“A trend is emerging with yet another 8.3% increase in domestic abuse calls in the last year, with over 65,000 individuals reaching out to An Garda Síochána for help,” the Dublin West TD noted.

“We cannot continue to turn a blind eye to this issue; this is a very serious matter and should be treated as such.”

He said that “more and more individuals, women in particular, are now having to choose between homelessness and a place that is no longer safe.”

The statistics revealed that the number of calls made in Donnelly’s region of DMR West increased from 5458 in 2023 to 6025 in 2024.

“Women’s Aid say that at least 1 in 4 women in Ireland are subjected to some form of abuse from a current or former partner; this is not just a private matter but a public issue that requires a multifaceted approach to reduce its prevalence and ensure that every individual who makes that phone call receives the support they deserve,” he said.

“Violence against women continues to rise, yet there remains no clear and effective response from government to address their issues at their root – women deserve better and women deserve to feel safe in every space they enter.”

“We need stronger legislation, stricter enforcement and robust regulations to ensure that offenders are held fully accountable for their actions..”

Help is available at www.safeireland.ie/get-help/where-to-find-help/