Willie O'Dea dismisses claims he referred to domestic violence issues as 'woke' 

Limerick TD Willie O'Dea: 'I have no problem with any legislation that deals with violence against women. Picture: Press 22

There are fears progress made in tackling domestic violence may be lost if the incoming government does not take the issue seriously.

Women's Aid has expressed serious concerns following statements by one TD it feels dismisses the issue of domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence (DSGBV) as "woke".

The programme for government could see a retrograde step in terms of progress made if such an attitude exists within government parties, it said.

"You had some criticism from within those mainstream parties suggesting that to work on issues of DSGBV as part of the justice portfolio was somehow 'woke' which is quite a staggering statement," said Women's Aid chief executive Sarah Benson.

The concern stems from a video posted by Fianna Fáil Limerick TD Willie O'Dea during the general election campaign, where he said Justice Minister Helen McEntee "concentrated almost exclusively on woke issues".

Mr O'Dea's comments attracted criticism, as some believed he was speaking about Ms McEntee's work in the area of domestic and gender-based violence. 

However, speaking to the Irish Examiner, Mr O'Dea said his comments relate to Ms McEntee's "lack of focus" on law and order issues.

"I have no problem with any legislation that deals with violence against women," the Limerick TD said. 

Everyone should be safe in their homes and safe walking our streets, especially women, and I want the new minister for justice to prioritise the protection of our citizens.

According to the latest Eurostat report, more than 40% of women in Ireland over the age of 18 report experiencing physical or sexual violence — 10% higher than the European average.