Domestic abuse victims are being told they can breach the 2km restriction of movement if they need to get out of harm's way.

€160,000 in funding has been made available to support victims of domestic abuse during the coronavirus outbreak.

The Justice Minister said the funding will go towards community and voluntary groups who offer support to victims of domestic violence to assist during this unprecedented time.

Victims are also being assured that if they are in harms way they can breach the restriction on staying within 2km of your home.

Minister Charlie Flanagan said: "I want victims to know that they will continue to receive the highest priority from the civil and criminal justice system throughout this crisis.

"I want perpetrators to know that too.”

A series of radio and television ads are being broadcast to assure any abuse victims of the supports still available to them.

A number of frontline groups - including Women's Aid, Safe Ireland and the Rape Crisis Network and Men’s Development Network - are working with the Government, gardaí and Tusla during the current awareness campaign.

Earlier, Government spokesperson Liz Canavan also moved to reassure anyone impacted by domestic abuse that help is available.

She said: "At a time when we have all been asked to stay home, we are very conscious that, for victims of domestic abuse, home may not be a safe place.

"The Government wishes to reassure victims of domestic abuse that support is still available despite COVID-19.

"Any restrictions on movement (the 2km rule) do not apply to a person trying to avoid risk of harm or seeking to access essential services."

Main image: File photo of Liz Canavan. Photo: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland