Violence against women is at 'crisis levels' according to Longford-Westmeath TD

Violence against women is at crisis levels and she has condemned the government for its 'slow and reactive approach to a worsening national crisis', according to a Longford-Westmeath TD.

Sinn Féin representative Sorca Clarke said every time she turns on the news or checks her phone, 'there is another horrific headline – another woman attacked, another woman raped, or another woman killed'.

"Still, we are told things are improving.

"But, these are not isolated tragedies, this is a pattern of systemic failure.

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“These women’s stories are harrowing, and public confidence in the government’s ability to protect women is rapidly eroding."

Deputy Clarke said the Government may speak of commitments and strategies, but 'women are living in fear today, not in five years’ time'.

"The Government’s response is completely disconnected from reality.

“You could serve longer for property damage in Ireland than for beating a woman unconscious.

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“A woman who survives assault more often than not faces harsher cross examination in courtrooms than their abusers face consequences.

Deputy Clarke, who is based in Mullingar, said soft sentencing for 'violent crimes against women remains routine' and it sends a 'clear message to women that their safety is undervalued'.

"When the courts hand out suspended sentences for life altering violence, they are suspending justice itself.

“In recent sexual offence and domestic violence cases, perpetrators have received suspended or non-custodial sentences, even in cases involving sustained abuse.

"However, this is more than just individual judges or isolated cases, it is about a culture that downplays violence when the victim is a woman.

“There is more urgency to repair potholes than for the safety of half the population.

“It is hard to escape the reality that is women’s pain and lives simply don’t carry equal weight in the courtroom.

“It is not just abusers that are failing women, but the system that refuses to hold them accountable for their actions.

“We are demanding real reform – not after the next tragedy, but now. Women deserve better.”