Domestic Abuse Message

Detective Superintendent Sinéad Greene from the Garda National Protective Services Bureau was in studio offering advice to victims of Domestic Abuse and complimented the bravery of one such victim who decided to tell her story, in the hope that others would be encouraged to seek help.

Sinéad spoke about the different forms of Domestic Abuse from the most lethal “Strangulation” and forms where very little force is applied.

Strangulation:

Strangulation is one of the most lethal forms of Domestic Violence: it is the most serious display of power and control, second only to murder. In terms of criminal investigations strangulation has typically been dealt with by way of the offence. “Assault Causing Harm”.  However, there is now a new standalone offence that specifically calls out this crime in the language that people will understand.

People may have an impression that extreme strength is required to inflict such abuse, however the pressure can be less than what takes to crack an egg, with loss of consciousness within 7 seconds and loss of control of bodily functions (such as bladder and bowel) within 30 seconds. It is possible to show no physical symptoms of strangulation but die weeks later due to lack of oxygen and other internal injuries.

 When we talk about Domestic Abuse we at (GNPSB) understand the nexus between strangulation and homicide. In fact, nonfatal strangulation is a leading indicator of escalating violence in a relationship and a significant risk factor for homicide in women.

Increase in reporting:

Domestic Abuse in not a new phenomenon and has existed for centuries - but through media awareness and changes within society domestic abuse is no longer viewed as a private matter.

We in An Garda Síochána see every day the bravery of victims coming forward, and speaking of their abuse after months, years or even decades later. While the approach we take may differ depending on each case, we want to reassure victims that we are here to help and will support them, along with our state and non-state partners, to keep them safe and lead a life free from abuse.

Christmas:

While many of us are planning on creating happy memories over Christmas with our families, for many this is not a reality. Some watching tonight are gripped with anxiety, stress and fear about what will happen over the festive period.  The festive period is a volatile time for so many in Ireland and I want to reassure those who are anxious, or those who are concerned for a family or a friend, that An Garda Síochána will respond, put protective measure in place to ensure their safety and the safety of their children - no matter what time or day we are called.

The Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023:

• Stalking - Section 10 (2) Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997.
• Non-fatal strangulation or non-fatal suffocation - Section 3A - Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997.
• Non-fatal strangulation or non-fatal suffocation causing serious harm - Section 4A Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997.