Domestic abuse - Shameful lack of safety

The report by Safe Ireland, released yesterday, indicates a massive increase in the number of people seeking refuge from domestic violence.

In the midst of the financial stress in which many families find themselves, some are turning to drink or drugs in their frustration. They may be victims of their own stress, but their families become the innocent victims of ensuing domestic violence.

The most disconcerting aspect of this phenomenon was the 40% rise in the number of instances in which women and children were turned away from domestic violence refuges because there was no room for them.