RCNI Press Release - 9 March 2010

RCNI welcome groundbreaking National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence

The RCNI welcome the National Strategy led by Cosc: the office for the prevention of Domestic, Sexual and gender-based violence which is being launched today, 9th March 2010 by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Mr Dermot Ahern.

Fiona Neary, RCNI Director said, ‘the National Strategy is a very welcome development in our objective to prevent and respond properly to sexual and domestic violence. The strategy for the first time will see a whole of government response to these complex issues.

‘Sexual and domestic violence are enormously complex issues. Achieving real change to make Ireland a safer country involves the efforts of many layers of State and society. A large number of State departments and agencies are committed in this National Strategy to concerted action. These include, An Gardaí Síochána, the courts services, the Dept. of Justice, Equality and Law reform, the Dept. of Health and the HSE, the Dept. of Education and Children, the Office of the Minister for Children and probation services, to name but a few.

‘The RCNI believe the full implementation of this strategy will be the start of real change. We commend Cosc and all those committed to its development. The RCNI will continue to work closely with the relevant bodies and agencies, as appropriate, to ensure the best outcomes for survivors.’

Notes:

The RCNI is the national representative body for the rape crisis sector.