State should provide home security systems for stalking victims, says Cork survivor

The psychological and emotional toll required therapy and medical appointments, while the perpetrator had access to free psychological and educational supports in prison, Laura O’Connell said

Laura O'Connell was told that activating a suspended sentence, were Sonya Egan to reoffend, would take months. Picture: Larry Cummins

Home security systems, including CCTV, should be provided by the State for stalking survivors, a Cork woman who survived a prolonged campaign of harassment has said.

TDs and senators can claim up to €25,000 for home and office security systems. However, no such financial supports exist for victims and survivors — many of whom have already incurred major costs as a victim of crime.