Liberties say ‘No’ to domestic violence

Michael Conlon of SICCDA, Cllr Críona Ní Dhálaigh and members of the local community at the balloon release

Women’s Aid National Balloon Action took place last month and the Liberties showed solidarity with the thousands women who suffer domestic violence.

The local action took place on Thursday the 25^th of November in coordination with simultaneous actions across the country.

Hosted by the South Inner City Community Development Agency (SICCDA), the event was attended by local Sinn Féin councilor Críona Ní Dhálaigh.

The local balloon action was a part of the Women’s Aid ‘One in Five’ National Balloon Action.  It took place on the first day of the International 16 Days of Action Opposing Violence (25^th November to 10^th December).

A display outside the SICCDA centre entitled “Help Us Break the Wall of Silence on Domestic Violence Against Women” includes speech bubbles which contain the answers of local women to the questions ‘What advice would you give someone who is in a domestic violent relationship?’ and ‘What are your thoughts/feelings/fears relating to domestic violence?’

Speaking at the event Cllr. Ní Dhálaigh urged people to volunteer their time in supporting this cause, “This past year, women’s aid have answered over 10,000 calls. I would urge anyone who had spare time to lend a hand and volunteer to this vital service.”
The event was attended by members of the local community, as well as many participants from SICCDA programmes.

Speaking at the event, SICCDA Coordinator Michael Conlon said, “I’d like to thank all our programme participants for taking part in the 16 day campaign and for offering their advice to those women experiencing domestic violence.  I’d urge any women experiencing domestic violence to contact women’s aid on 1800 341 900”

166 women have been murdered in Ireland since 1996.  In 51% of the resolved cases, the woman was murdered by their partner or ex-partner. It is estimated that 213,000 Irish women suffer severe abuse.

The 16 Days Campaign is an opportunity for individuals and groups around the world to call for the elimination of all forms of violence against women.
During the last 19 years over 2000 groups in 156 countries have taken part. In Ireland last year, over 80 groups and individuals organised events.