Gardaí confirm domestic abuse rise during pandemic

REPORTS of domestic abuse incidents to Gardaí across Galway increased by almost one third over recent months as compared to the same period last year, the Connacht Tribune has learned.

The sharp increase of just over 32% roughly coincides with the Covid-19 confinement period that began in mid-March – the latest figures cover both the county and city areas.

According to the figures obtained by the Connacht Tribune, the number of domestic abuse incidents reported to Galway Gardaí from March 1 to May 31, this year, was 266 – as compared to 201 for the same period in 2019.

The increase in reported cases of domestic abuse in Galway – 65 or 32.3% – is broadly in line with national Garda figures issued this week showing a 25% increase in reported cases.

A spokesperson for Galway Gardaí told the Connacht Tribune, that they encouraged anyone experiencing domestic abuse or who suspected that this might be happening close to them, to report it immediately to the Gardaí.

“They can report such incidents to the Garda Divisional Protective Services Unit [based in Murrough opposite GMIT] or indeed to any Garda Station. But the key thing is to report it and in an emergency situation to dial 999 or 112,” said the Garda spokesperson.

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