Violence against women

Seven submissions referenced violence against women (AI, Aontas, Pavee Point, NCCWN, Plan, FP and Barnardos). Both Barnardos and AI referenced a reported increase in domestic violence during COVID-19 lockdown situations. AI and NCCWN argued that COVID-19 has exacerbated existing gender inequalities which can precipitate violence against women. NCCWN recommended that the DCEDIY: “Provide adequate funding and supports to domestic violence services and resource local area networks against violence against women”. FP noted that “services which provide culturally and linguistically appropriate support for victims of domestic violence are extremely rare”. Plan’s submission focused on the gendered nature of online abuse, and recommend both a legislative remedy and the provision of a helpline to support those affected. Barnardos noted that the “Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence includes no mention of children or young people”. They recommended that this should be rectified in future policies.