Ahern Releases Domestic Violence Report

The survey examined people's attitudes and beliefs including their understanding of what domestic abuse is; how common people think it is; any differences in how domestic abuse affects men versus women; and what people would do if they suspect someone is a victim. 

Speaking at the launch, the Minister said, "It is important to understand the need for, and significance of, this study. There is very little research on domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in Ireland. The research which had been done shows a consistent prevalence of this abuse, with very low levels of reporting.

"We know that domestic abuse is a serious, hidden and tragic issue. It affects people of all ages in all areas of Ireland, whether they are witnesses or direct victims of the abuse. We already have a broad range of organisations in Ireland working very hard to prevent and respond to these crimes yet despite their actions, this kind of criminal behaviour is constant."

The key findings of the survey include almost half (44%) of all Irish people know someone who has experienced domestic abuse, but when people were asked about their willingness to intervene where they encountered domestic abuse, most were only willing to intervene in certain circumstances.

In response to the results of the survey launched today Cosc is currently running a national public awareness campaign 'Your Silence Feeds the Violence' aimed at strongly encouraging the public to take an active role in supporting people who are experiencing domestic abuse.

"The campaign message illustrates that we are all complicit if we allow domestic violence to continue unchallenged," concluded Mr Ahern.