Development of the policy would benefit more than 47,000 public servants in Ireland. Photo: File.
A new Domestic Violence and Abuse Policy for Ireland’s public servants sets out statutory entitlements for domestic violence leave and other employment support.
Launching the policy, the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, Pascal Donohoe, acknowledged the impacts of domestic abuse in the wider society and the impact on the working lives of those experiencing it.
“We must recognise that the workplace may be somewhere a victim has distance from an abuser, and therefore employers are in a prime position to provide workplace support and guidance toward specialist services,” Mr Donohoe said.
“It is in this context that the Civil Service has developed this important policy which underscores its commitment to supporting staff and colleagues impacted by domestic violence and abuse.”
Chief Executive of Women’s Aid Sarah Benson said her organisation commended the development of the policy, which would benefit more than 47,000 public servants nationwide.
“We know that employers who implement policies and procedures for employees subjected to domestic abuse can help to reduce the risk of victims and or survivors giving up work, increase financial security and also increase feelings of solidarity and support,” Ms Benson said.
“Women’s Aid looks forward to continued collaboration with the department and the minister to support the implementation of this excellent initiative.”
The policy will be accompanied by a more detailed guide for public service employers, as well as a program of training and awareness.
Dublin, 3 October 2023
