Gardaí are reminding the public that the 5km restriction does not apply to anyone fleeing domestic abuse.

Officers have recorded an 18% increase in calls for help related to domestic abuse this year, compared to last year.

Gardaí today launched the third phase of Operation Faoiseamh – which ensures the vulnerable and victims of abuse continue to receive the “highest priority response” despite the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

Dublin Rape Crisis Centre CEO Noeline Blackwell at the launch of the RCC Annual Report in Dublin, 26-11-2018. Image: RollingNews

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre CEO Noeline Blackwell told Newstalk that coronavirus restrictions do not apply to anyone fleeing domestic violence.

“Those restrictions on where you can go do not apply to somebody who is going outside their area because of their fear of danger in their own home or within their 5km limit,” she said.

“Do not feel that you have to put up with this harm or crime in your own home.”

Operation Faoiseamh

Gardaí said they contacted or attempted to contact 15,320 victims of domestic abuse during the first phase of Operation Faoiseamh, which ran until October 12th.

The second phase of the operation saw 107 people prosecuted for domestic violence related crimes.

Meanwhile, there has been a 14.7% increase in the number of people caught breaching protection orders this year.

Ms Blackwell said domestic violence can often take the form of rape or sexual violence.

“About 20% of our clients every single year are victims of rape and sexual abuse at the hands of their partner or ex-partner,” she said.

“So, one form of domestic violence is rape and sexual abuse. Anyone who is at risk of domestic violence in this time of restriction should be aware of this new operation.”

She said it is essential that vulnerable people are aware of the garda operation and the supports available to them.

Protective Service Unit

As of September, every Garda division in the country now has a Protective Service Unit.

Detective Chief Superintendent Declan Daly, head of the National Protective Services Bureau said: "Prior to the commencement of Operation Faoiseamh, I assured those victims experiencing domestic abuse that An Garda Síochána were available to assist you in this difficult time.

“An Garda Síochána are mindful of the fear and concern some in our community may have at this time. I wish to take this opportunity to re-emphasise our commitment to protect the most vulnerable in society.

"Operation Faoiseamh has been established to ensure you are safe, if you feel threatened or are in fear please contact us and we will respond quickly and robustly.

“If you are a victim of abuse or you know of a family member or friend who is a victim of such abuse, that information is important to us and I ask that you make contact with An Garda Síochána.

“If you require urgent assistance or support, please call 999 or 112, we are there to listen to help and to protect.”

Anyone affected by issues raised in this article can contact the Women's Aid 24-hour National Freephone Helpline on 1800-341-900 or go to www.womensaid.ie

You can also contact the National Rape Crisis Centre 24-Hour Helpline on 1800 77 8888.