Cllr Róisín Kenny highlights domestic violence supports in Sligo, Leitrim and West Cavan

The lenient sentencing of Natasha O’Brien’s attacker, Cathal Crotty, a soldier, who received a three-year suspended sentence last week, has brought thousands out on the streets to protest. Local Sinn Féin councillor Róisín Kenny urged: "We cannot allow perpetrators of violence against women to escape accountability."

The brave young woman took the courageous action of facing her attacker in court and was let down by a judicial system that prioritised a man’s career over justice for the victim.

This sentencing happened in the same week where the issue of domestic violence was spoken about by Mary Lou McDonald in the Dáil. She highlighted the Women’s Aid report which showed the highest level of domestic violence disclosures in the organisation’s 50-year history and called for an “emergency action plan” to deliver refuges.

In Sinn Féin's Alternative Budget for 2024, the party made a capital provision of €15 million for domestic violence shelters.

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Taoiseach Simon Harris stated that the Defence Forces were only acting on the issue now 'because of the bravery of Natasha O'Brien'.

Leitrim is one of the nine counties in the State that does not have a shelter for women and children suffering domestic abuse along with Cavan, Longford, Roscommon, Sligo, Monaghan, Laois, Offaly and Carlow. Refuges play a crucial role in providing a safe haven for women and children escaping abusive relationships.

These refuges crucially offer a secure environment where victims can live while receiving supports to guide them in their next steps.

While there are no refuges in the county, there is help there for people who need it, highlighted by Cllr Kenny. The Domestic Violence Advocacy Service (DVAS) provide an invaluable service to Sligo, Leitrim and West Cavan.

They provide supports such as helpline assistance, one-on-one support, court accompaniment, and outreach support.

Their helpline number is 071 91 41515 and is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm. Women’s Aid also provide a free 24 hour helpline on 1800 341 900.

Cllr Kenny spoke to Carmel McNamee, the manager of DVAS to hear her views. She said: "While the government five year strategy on zero tolerance for domestic, sexual and gender based violence is very welcome it is no use without implementation."

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Carmel also remarked that DVAS would be delighted to hear from people who would like to support their work around refuge
development. She can be contacted by email at carmel@dvas.ie