'We all want to feel safe': Call for mandatory protection orders for survivors when abusers leave jail

Shaneda Daly gave powerful testimony to the Oireachtas Committee on Justice as it considered the Victims of Sexual Violence Civil Protection Orders Bill

Shaneda Daly described the years of trauma, anxiety and depression she experienced, including having to relive the abuse by her father, former prison officer Harry Daly, during the investigation and court proceedings.

A Clare woman who was raped by her father has delivered a powerful testimony to the Oireachtas Committee on Justice demanding mandatory protection orders for victims of sexual violence when their abusers are released from prison.

Shaneda Daly, aged 51, from Shannon town addressed the committee as part of its consideration of the Victims of Sexual Violence Civil Protection Orders Bill.

Her father, former prison officer Harry Daly, pleaded guilty in 2011 to 227 sample charges relating to the sexual abuse of his daughter and served seven-and-a-half years in prison.

At the time of sentencing, the judge directed that he stay away from Shaneda unless she wished to see him. However, following his release in November 2018, she discovered that there was no enforceable legal restriction preventing him from approaching or contacting her.

The mother of six told the committee that survivors should not have to endure another court process to obtain protection from someone who has already been convicted of abusing them.

She asked:

Why should I have to go back to court to get a protection order?

Shaneda described the years of trauma, anxiety and depression she experienced, including having to relive the abuse during the investigation and court proceedings.

She has since dedicated herself to supporting other survivors, founding a support group with more than 2,500 members, writing a book and speaking to thousands of people affected by sexual abuse.

“The common thing we all want is to be heard and feel safe,” she told the committee.

She said mandatory protection orders would allow survivors to leave court knowing they were legally protected when their abuser was eventually released.

“We at least deserve to know we are legally protected as long as these predators are out of prison and we can continue our road to recovery in peace.” 

Shaneda was joined by other survivors Sonya Stokes, Leona O’Callaghan, and Paula Doyle. They spoke about their experiences and the need for greater protections for victims and survivors.

The four women have been campaigning on this issue for the past number of years.