New law proposed for video evidence in domestic abuse trials

A new report from the Garda Inspectorate calls for changes in the law to allow video statements as evidence in domestic abuse trials. This suggestion aims to help victims who may be reluctant to testify in person due to trauma and stress. The report highlights that nearly half of domestic abuse victims are unhappy with how their reports are handled by Gardaí. Last year, Gardaí received over 65,000 domestic abuse-related contacts. The Inspectorate found that many victims do not report incidents at all, with 39 percent stating they did not report their most recent experience. Of those who did report, only 35 percent were satisfied with the response from Gardaí. Many victims faced issues such as a lack of privacy when reporting and varied treatment based on whether they had a support person with them. The report also pointed out that the response from Gardaí remained unchanged for victims who experienced multiple incidents of domestic violence. This raises concerns about whether their needs are being reassessed, especially as some victims face escalating violence. The Inspectorate criticized Gardaí for their inconsistent understanding of domestic violence orders, which can protect victims by excluding perpetrators from homes. It suggested that Gardaí should have the power to issue short-term exclusion notices and pursue longer-lasting court orders to enhance victim protection. Additionally, the Inspectorate mentioned that while Gardaí planned to create a strategy to combat domestic abuse, progress has stalled. They urged the Garda to develop a comprehensive approach to address these issues. In response, the Garda stated that it would take time to review the report and consider feedback from domestic abuse victims.