25 percent increase in domestic abuse calls over the last year

107 prosecutions connected to Operation Faoiseamh Phase II have been reported.

More than 100 people have been been charged with domestic abuse offences in May according to new figures from An Garda Síochána. Gardaí have recorded a 25 percent year on year increase in calls for assistance in respect of domestic related issues between 2019/2020. As part of their community engagement response to Covid-19, Operation Faoiseamh, was launched on 1 April with the aim of targeting domestic abuse. Phase I aimed to make contact with victims of domestic abuse with a view to ascertaining any existing issues of concern, to offer support and reassurance and to ensure that any issues identified were dealt with swiftly and decisively. Figures show that Gardaí made made over 8,229 contacts, or attempted contacts, with victims since the operation began. Phase II of Operation Faoiseamh commenced on 13 May this year and concentrated on the execution of arrests and the commencement of prosecutions for offences relating to breaches of court orders obtained pursuant to relevant provisions of the Domestic Violence Act, 2018. Between 13 May and 27 May, a total of 107 prosecutions connected to Operation Faoiseamh Phase II have been reported to Garda National Protective Services Bureau as having being commenced. "I wish to take this opportunity to re-emphasise our commitment to protecting the vulnerable in our communities," Detective Chief Superintendent Declan Daly, GNPSB said. "The 107 prosecutions initiated in the last few weeks as part of Operation Faoiseamh should serve as a reminder to all that breaching domestic abuse Court Orders is an offence and can result in Court Proceedings. Victims and those who are aware of abusive domestic circumstances should continue to report to An Garda Siochana."