Kilkenny senator tables bill on domestic violence

The Seanad will debate a Social Democrats’ Bill tomorrow (Wednesday, October 22) which aims to establish a free travel scheme for survivors of domestic violence and their dependents.
 
Launching her first Bill, Carlow-Kilkenny based senator Patricia Stephenson said:
 
“Domestic violence, which mainly affects women, can force those fleeing their abusers into poverty. Having to escape an abusive relationship or ex-partner is always a deeply traumatic experience – but it can also result in additional financial costs for those caught up in these frightening situations.
 
“For instance, a woman may end up in a refuge located far away from her job or children’s school. The cost of travelling for work, school, healthcare, psychological support or legal advice can put many survivors under financial pressure.
 
“My Bill aims to establish a ‘Safe Passage’ travel scheme for survivors of domestic violence, which would provide a free travel pass, to include dependents, valid for three months. This would be accepted across all Transport for Ireland services, including Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Local Link, Luas and Irish Rail.

“The scheme is designed to be survivor-centred and would be activated via referral from approved bodies under Cuan – the domestic, sexual and gender-based violence agency. This would avoid the necessity for repeated disclosures of trauma.
 
“Three months of free travel will not solve every problem, but it sends a powerful message – that the State will support you in moving on, rebuilding your life and living freely. It means you are not just seen as a victim, but as a person beginning again. It acknowledges that safety is not only about locks and alarms, but about access, connection, and opportunity.
 
“This Bill is about freedom – freedom to leave, freedom to move, freedom to begin again. It is about the dignity of survivors of violence and ensuring they are not left to navigate trauma in isolation.
 
“We have an epidemic of domestic violence in Ireland. My Bill is just one step towards addressing the cost factors that heap further trauma and stress on survivors.”

READ MORE KILKENNY VIEWS AND OPINION HERE