Organisations supporting survivors of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in Clare insist the voices of victims and support services must be heard to ensure the success of Jennie’s Law.
It comes as Cabinet is discussing plans to set up a domestic violence register.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan is bringing draft legislation to Cabinet today, which will see those convicted of domestic violence publicly named, with permission from the victim.
The proposed law is named after 24-year-old Jennifer Poole from Dublin, who was murdered by her ex-partner Gavin Murphy in 2021.
The 33-year-old had served time in prison for attacking a former girlfriend, and lied to Jennifer during their relationship, saying he was living in Spain during the time he was in jail.
Jennifer’s brother, Jason, says it’s bittersweet to see Jennie’s Law becoming a reality.
Organisations supporting survivors of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in Clare say the devil will be in the detail of how the register is managed and maintained.
Clare Haven has described the proposed legislation as a significant step forward, that will forearm and forewarn potential victims.
Manager of Services, Siobhán O’Connor says it’s essential that every mechanism is in place to ensure the system isn’t open to exploitation.
Rape Crisis Midwest is calling on the Government to ensure adequate funding is invested in support services on the ground to ensure all services are fully understood by frontline workers, once the legislation is passed.
Executive Director, Siobhán O’Leary insists that Jennie’s Law could ultimately fall on it’s face, if all aspects of the legislation aren’t properly delivered.
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