Women’s Aid welcome plans for domestic violence leave

Ireland will follow in the footsteps of New Zealand and the Philippines in implementing financial support for those who experience domestic abuse.

Women's Aid have welcomed the Irish Government's plan to introduce paid leave for survivors of domestic violence. According to the Irish Examiner, the Department of Equality is looking to implement a policy which would provide financial support to those who experience domestic abuse. Minister Roderic O'Gorman said earlier this year that increasing support for victims of domestic violence was a "personal priority". A spokesperson for the Department said: "[Minister Roderic O'Gorman] is committed to introducing a statutory entitlement to paid domestic violence leave, and intends to bring forward proposals on this early in the new year.

"To inform these proposals, the department has engaged in a targeted consultation process with relevant stakeholders and social partners to examine how a scheme of paid leave should operate to address the needs of victims most effectively.

"This consultation included the monitoring committee of the Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence, employers' groups and trade unions and with stakeholders of the National Equality Strategy Committees."

Welcoming the plan, Women's Aid CEO Sarah Benson said: "It's wonderful that something now will be put on a statutory footing. It will show how a workplace and employer can pivot to become an ally, rather than an additional challenge, for someone subject to domestic abuse." The plan will see Ireland follow in the footsteps of New Zealand and the Philippines who have enacted similar policies. In the Philippines, employees who experience domestic violence are entitled to ten paid days off. In New Zealand, those affected by domestic violence are entitled to paid leave as well as flexible working arrangements. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, support is available. Women's Aid's 24hr National Freephone Helpline can be reached on 1800 341 900. Other resources can be found on their website right here. Feature image: Eamon Farrell / RollingNews.ie