More needed for victims of domestic violence

Leitrim County Council is to write to the Minister for Justice in relation to tackling the issue of domestic abuse. 

Cllr Finola Armstrong-McGuire's motion to the monthly meeting of the local authority stated that violence against women in their own homes and involving persons known to them is increasing and too often fatal. 

"I ask this council to write to the Minister for Justice asking that urgent action is taken to reverse this worrying trend. I further ask that we are furnished with a report summarising studies of recent years and any recommendations to be shared so that such tragic incidents can be avoided," she said. 

She noted there are "safe houses" in Leitrim and Sligo but said she felt better "guidance and wraparound services are needed."

Cllr Armstrong-McGuire said as councillors, the elected members meet people who are in "dire straits" who have been given social housing but don't "have the wraparound services" such access to a local GP or dentist or early intervention services for their children. 
"They are traumatised and asking for our help," Cllr Armstrong-McGuire continued, adding that she felt the Sligo/Leitrim region "needs to have a better type of refuge centre" for those affected by this issue. 

Cllr Mary Bohan seconded the motion and noted that "violence against women is increasing, certainly all over the country" and agreed that a more "coordinated" approach was needed.