Immigrants silent on abuse for fear of deportation

Immigrants living here are not reporting incidents of domestic violence out of fear that it will impact on their ability to stay in the country, the Immigrant Council of Ireland has said.

ICI wants new immigration legislation to include provisions which specifically refer to domestic violence situations. It has also highlighted shortfalls in the provision of emergency accommodation and welfare support to victims.

In a submission to the Oireachtas Justice Committee, ICI and eight other groups which make up the Domestic Violence Coalition said it is seeking action in four areas: