More than 1,000 domestic abuse reports per week

There has been a 10% increase in domestic abuse incidents so far this year, according to gardai.

There were more than 17,900 incidents of domestic abuse reported up to the end of April when compared to the same period in 2025.

The figures were released on the sixth annual Go Purple Day, a garda initiative to raise awareness about domestic abuse.

There were more 52,600 incidents of domestic abuse reported in total in 2025 – a 6% increase on 2024.

It means there was an average of more than 1,000 domestic abuse reports per week.

In the first four months of this year, there have been 920 arrests for domestic abuse and 4,900 charges or summonses in the same period.

To mark the day, gardai and members of the public have been encouraged to show their support by “going purple”, through their outfit choice, home decorations or social media posts.

Buildings across Ireland are also lighting up in purple to show their support, including Garda Headquarters, the National Museum, the National Library, the Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny Castle, the National Concert Hall and Collins Barracks, alongside a number of Government buildings and garda stations.

Assistant Commissioner for Organised and Serious Crime Angela Willis said domestic abuse continues to have a devastating impact.

“It can be a hidden crime, happening behind closed doors, and in the case of coercive control it can be occurring in plain sight.

“Those experiencing this form of abuse are very often isolated, cut off from support networks, leaving them feeling vulnerable, fearful and unable to advocate for themselves.”