Minister of State, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran is calling on Gardai to include victims of domestic violence in their community response visits during the COVID-19 emergency lockdown to ensure their safety and well-being.
Minister Moran said that all Gardai currently involved in responding to community needs of the elderly and vulnerable should extend their brief by contacting all recent victims of domestic violence to see how they are managing.
“It’s very important that domestic violence victims are not left in vulnerable situations and that they are not forgotten about during this current lockdown,” Minister Moran said. “It would appear that sadly there is evidence that domestic violence is an issue at the present time and it is something that we need to look at as a priority.”
“I am calling on the Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris, to instruct his members to make contact with recent victims of domestic violence and to check on their safety and wellbeing. This can be done via a number of means such as a simple text message, a phone call or a discreet visit to the home.
“I would be particularly concerned that some women and children may feel trapped in a domestic setting at the present time and I think the Gardai can play a leading role in reassuring them that help is there if they need it,” he added.
“I think the Gardai have done the State a tremendous service over the last few weeks and I commend their great efforts in protecting us all during the current lockdown. I know that they too are concerned that the current restrictions on movement are increasing pressure on already vulnerable families and children and I think they should now be given policy directions to address those concerns.”
