Gardaí have received over 41,000 callouts for domestic violence so far this year.

New figures provided to Aontú Leader Peadar Tóibín via Parliamentary Question show that the annual number of domestic violence calls has more than doubled in the last decade.

In 2013, there were around 13,000 domestic violence calls to Gardaí – a figure that has increased every year since.

Last year, there were 45,000 calls – a 246% increase on the 2013 figure.

Domestic violence

Government has previously said combatting domestic violence is one of its key priorities; however, Deputy Tóibín told Newstalk that more needs to be done.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that the startling difference in 13,000 just 10 years ago and 45,000 now shows a radically different situation,” he said.

“There is a change in culture happening and the Government needs to fight the behaviour that is leading to this violence and they also need to provide more supports to women who are suffering this violence.”

He said the figures show that domestic violence remains a huge problem in Ireland.

“In 2013, roughly 13,000 Garda calls were made for domestic violence and that has increased to 45,000 calls last year,” he said. “That is horrendous.

“That is 45,000 people, the vast majority of whom are women, who have suffered in some way - in a physical way or mentally - in terms of the abuse they are getting in a domestic setting.”

Legislation

On Monday, new laws entitling anyone experiencing domestic violence to paid leave from work came into force.

The regulations entitle survivors to five days leave on full pay – and they do not need to provide evidence of abuse to employers to claim it.

Meanwhile, new offences and tougher sentences for domestic violence crimes came into force last month.

If you are impacted by any of the issues discussed in this article you can contact the Women’s Aid 24hr National Freephone Helpline on 1800 341 900.

You can access local domestic violence services here.

Additional reporting Michael Staines.