Cree welcomes role of education to eliminate and raise awareness of violence against women

Ulster Unionist MLA and Northern Ireland Policing Board member Leslie Cree has welcomed the commitment of the Department of Education to eliminate violence against women and calls for more strategy across government departments.

Mr. Cree says, "I welcome the dedication of the Department of Education to eradicate violence against women. It is clear that for many children and women the home is not the safe haven which it should be. It is a disgrace that an estimated 32, 000 children in Northern Ireland are facing the reality and devastating consequences of domestic violence. This abuse has long-lasting effects on children, well beyond childhood.

"I am disgusted that a quarter of women will face domestic abuse during their lifetime. We need continued cross-party support and both increased inter-departmental strategy and commitment to ensure that our appalling record of abuse against women is brought to a halt. Not only is domestic abuse the least likely violent crime to be reported to the police but on average a woman is assaulted 35 times before seeking help.

"However, eliminating violence against women is not only a job for the PSNI and Northern Ireland Policing Board but also for the community at large. We all have a role to play in condemning such violence and to ensuring that victims and survivors of domestic abuse receive the support needed to rebuild their lives free from the fear of violence. It is time for this heinous crime which goes on behind closed doors in the supposed sanctuary of the home to end."