Sinn Féin MEP Kathleen Funchion on the importance of listening to coercive control victims

Sinn Féin MEP Kathleen Funchion is urging people to listen to victims

Funchion appeared on Ireland AM this week to urge the public to listen to their loved ones if they confide in them about coercive control.

She stressed that we should never judge victims but should listen to them when they find the strength to reach out.

She told presenters Tommy Bowe and Muireann O'Connell that coercive control can be "hard to identify" because it can be gradual. However, it leads to the victim doubting and questioning themselves.

Funchion's former partner Sean Tyrell was sentenced to four months in prison for offences under Coco’s Law.

She said Tyrell would always question her if she didn't arrive home on time. He also accused her of being unfaithful and wanted her to do a lie detector test.

He made a number of false allegations against Funchion, but she said she did try to find a solution to mend things, as he had tarnished all of her confidence.

"I felt that I was always trying to find a solution as I really loved Sean, I really wanted this relationship to work. For me, this was it. I was determined to see how we could figure this out."

"You’re always trying to be ten steps ahead to think what kind of potential issue is happening here."

Speaking about the trial, Funchion said she's glad she did "go all the way with it."

Funchion said she feels lighter but is deeply affected by how Tyrell treated her.

She said: "It is very, very difficult for people. I’ve always had admiration for people who come forward, but even more-so after going through it."

Support for anyone affected: Women’s Aid 24hr National Freephone Helpline 1800 341 900, open seven days a week.

Read more: These are the signs and red flags of an abusive relationship