Gardaí receive more than 54,000 reports of domestic violence in 2023
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There have been over 54,000 reports of domestic violence received by Gardaí so far this year.
The Garda National Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB) confirmed the figures today, an increase of 8% on the same period last year.
In a statement, Detective Chief Superintendent Colm Noonan said that Gardaí are “fully committed” to supporting victims of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence and ensuring offenders are prosecuted.
“The Christmas period is an enjoyable time for the majority of citizens but An Garda Síochána understands the fear and concern some in our community have in their own homes, which can be further heightened at this time of year,” Mr Noonan said.
He urged anyone who is currently or was previously a victim of such abuse to contact the Gardaí, saying that they will be “supported and heard”.
“By fully exposing these crimes, as well as constantly improving our policing response, we can help reduce the prevalence of domestic abuse and gender-based violence in our society,” Mr Noonan said.
The latest figures follow the introduction of new domestic violence leave late last month, with workers now entitled to take up to five days leave with full pay over the course of a year.
No prior notice needs to be given and can be taken where the employee is the victim of domestic violence — including coercive control — or where they are supporting their spouse, partner, or child who is the victim, according to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability Integration and Youth.
Announcing the figures, Gardaí said that they are currently working with external partners to raise awareness of female genital mutilation, alongside taking action to prosecute individuals who are organising prostitution in Ireland.
Gardaí also confirmed that their Domestic Abuse Risk Evaluation Tool is in operation and in use across all Garda districts, divisions and regions. The tool itself is used by frontline Gardaí to assess risks posed to domestic violence victims by the perpetrators.