Surge in domestic violence, child protection, organised crime before courts in 2020

Chief Justice Frank Clarke said 2020 was a 'truly unprecedented year', with radical changes in the operation of courts caused by pandemic restrictions. File picture: Sam Boal/RollingNews.ie

Applications for domestic violence protections rose by 12% last year and was part of the “increased pressures” on family life during the pandemic, according to the Court Service.

Launching its annual report for 2020 on Wednesday lunchtime, the Courts Service said there had been an ongoing surge in such cases, jumping by 65% in the last five years.