Domestic violence on the rise as Gardaí receive over 50,000 reports in 2023

An Garda Síochána are once again supporting the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign, which commenced on the 25th November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10th December, Human Rights Day.
 
Provisional figures highlight that An Garda Síochána has received in excess of 54,000 domestic abuse reports to date in 2023 - an 8% increase on the corresponding period in 2022.

Gardaí have said they will continue to treat all instances of gender based violence as a priority and once again re-enforce their commitment to ‘keeping people safe’, and in particular the victims of domestic and sexual abuse.

Speaking today, Detective Chief Superintendent, Garda National Protective Services Bureau, Colm Noonan, said:

"An Garda Síochána is fully committed to supporting victims of domestic, sexual and gender based violence, and investigating and prosecuting offenders.
 
"This year, through our social media channels, An Garda Síochána have reached out to communities across Ireland, through 14 different languages, reaffirming our support and commitment to victims of gender based violence.
 
"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.
 
"I urge anyone who has in the past or may be currently suffering Domestic, Sexual or Gender Based Violence to contact any Garda station or in an emergency to call 999/112. I can assure victims 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."