Domestic abuse reports rise by 25% in Kilkenny during lockdown
There has been a 25% increase in calls to the garda in regarding domestic abuse in county Kilkenny as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown.
This morning, An Garda Síochána gave an update on their Operation Faoiseamh, the community engagement programme launched on April 1 in an effort to prevent the loss of life from domestic issues, and to give support and protection to victims during the lockdown.
A total of 8,229 contacts or attempts at contact to victims of domestic abuse have been recorded as part of Operation Faoiseamh, an increase of 25% on the same period in 2019.
Gardai say a number of victims used the opportunity presented by Operation Faoiseamh to request further assistance from both them and local resources. In two weeks last month, gardai successfully prosecuted 107 people due to Operation Faoiseamh.
Speaking about the success of Operation Faoiseamh, Detective Chief Superintendent Declan Daly of the 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 and willing to assist you in this difficult time.
“I wish to take this opportunity to re-emphasise our commitment to protecting the vulnerable in our communities. The 107 prosecutions initiated in the last few weeks as part of Operation Faoiseamh should serve as a reminder to all that breaching domestic abuse Court Orders is an offence and can result in Court Proceedings.
“Victims and those who are aware of abusive domestic circumstances should continue to report to An Garda Siochana,” Chief Superintendent Daly concluded.
