Breach of a barring order must face tougher consequences – Butterly

The breach of a barring order must be recognised as a standalone offence to better protect victims of domestic abuse, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Paula Butterly said to ensure domestic violence victims and survivors have confidence in the system, tougher penalties must be introduced for those who breach a barring order repeatedly or seriously.

“A barring order is one of the most important legal protections available to victims of domestic abuse, designed to keep people and their children safe from violence, threats, and psychological abuse.

“When someone deliberately breaches that order, they are endangering a victim and defying the decision of our court systems.

“A barring order is a critical line of defence for people whose safety is under threat. When that line is crossed, the law must respond with the seriousness the situation demands.

“Currently all breaches of a barring order are dealt with as a summary offence. In some circumstances where there are serious and repeated breaches, we need tougher penalties.

“Too many victims are living in fear of their abuser, despite having a barring order. Domestic violence continues to impact so many lives in our communities, and we must ensure the law provides meaningful support for those who need it.  

“Breaching a barring order should be formally recognised as a standalone offence carrying a penalty of five years imprisonment. This sends a clear message that a breach will not be tolerated.  

“When bail decisions are being made, a person’s history of breaching a barring order must play a key role. Repeated breaches of a barring order should ensure courts refuse bail and result in a more severe sentence. We must also look at coercive control, which often underpins domestic abuse, when making bail decisions to ensure that victims receive the full protection of the law.

“A standalone offence for a serious breach of a barring order carrying a five-year penalty must be introduced. Victims and survivors across the country courageously share their stories with the hope that they can get justice and to support other victims, we need to ensure our laws are strengthened to support them.

“Recognising this as a serious offence is essential to strengthening our response to domestic violence and protecting victims,” concluded Deputy Butterly.

ENDS