This paper deals with the reasons for, and the present legal protection against, domestic violence (DV) in the Republic of Ireland (ROI). Firstly, the paper sets out a definition for DV in order to analyse the reasons for DV. Following this, the paper will list the different legal options a victim has. Similar to other European countries the ROI is in a rather early stage of developing suitable legal protection and therefore laws are still stationed in the amendment phase. Finally, the paper focuses on one of the women's refuges in the Dublin Area. To better relate to the Austrian reality, small boxes with comparable Austrian data have been added in-between each paragraph. The following graph should give the reader an overview of the different sources of information dealt with in this topic. [...]
Table of Contents
1. ABSTRACT
2. INTRODUCTION
3. A CULTURAL-LED DEFINITION AND POSSIBLE REASONS FOR DV
3.1. Definition
3.2. A Typical Irish Family
3.3. Possible Reasons for DV
3.3.1. „Travellers“ – A cultural challenge for Irish Officials
4. PROTECTIONS AVAILABLE AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN IRISH LAW
4.1. Irish Legislation
4.2. Women’s Refuges
5. CONCLUSION
Research Objectives and Themes
This paper examines the underlying reasons for domestic violence in Ireland and evaluates current legal protection mechanisms for victims, while providing a comparative perspective through Austrian data. The central research concern is to understand how cultural factors and existing legislative frameworks influence the prevalence of abuse and the support available to victims.
- The definition and socio-cultural roots of domestic violence in Ireland.
- The impact of Irish family structures and social traditions on reporting abuse.
- Comparative analysis of Irish legal protections versus Austrian institutional approaches.
- The role and challenges of women’s refuges in providing safety and support.
Excerpt from the Book
3.3.1. „Travellers“ – A cultural challenge for Irish Officials
In the 17th century, it was forbidden for Irish Catholics to own land. Many lived in wagons and travelled from place to place to find work. The law has now changed but by paying close attention you can still see "travellers" living in their caravans along the roads outside Dublin. I was told that because this minority was deeply embedded in their traditions and ancient moral beliefs, the “traveller” community is not really accepted as a part of modern Irish society. Women are far from being treated equally as they often have no access to proper education or legal advice. Most of these women end up going back to their abuser because they see no alternative for their future (Moore, 2004, p.3).
Summary of Chapters
1. ABSTRACT: This chapter outlines the paper's focus on domestic violence in Ireland, its legal framework, and the methodology of incorporating comparative Austrian data.
2. INTRODUCTION: The introduction identifies domestic violence as a critical, often taboo socio-political issue within Irish society and provides context through EU-wide statistics.
3. A CULTURAL-LED DEFINITION AND POSSIBLE REASONS FOR DV: This section explores the definition of domestic violence and examines how traditional Irish family life and specific cultural challenges, such as those faced by the "Traveller" community, contribute to the issue.
4. PROTECTIONS AVAILABLE AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN IRISH LAW: This chapter details the current Irish legislative tools and the functioning of women's refuges, highlighting the multi-agency approach required for effective protection.
5. CONCLUSION: The conclusion synthesizes the findings, noting that while Ireland has made progress, continuous work on legislation and institutional support is essential across the EU.
Keywords
Domestic Violence, Ireland, Austria, Women's Refuges, Irish Legislation, Social Revolution, Financial Dependency, Traveller Community, Gardaí, Family Law, Safety Order, Barring Order, Victim Protection, Abuse, Cultural Challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research paper?
The paper investigates the reasons behind domestic violence in the Republic of Ireland and analyzes the effectiveness of the legal protections currently available to victims.
What are the central thematic fields covered?
The study centers on definitions of domestic violence, the influence of Irish societal structures, legislative measures, and the practical challenges faced by women's refuges.
What is the primary goal of the research?
The primary goal is to assess the prevalence of domestic violence in Ireland and evaluate if the current legal and social support systems provide adequate protection, using Austria as a comparative reference.
Which scientific methods were employed?
The research relies on a qualitative approach, including interviews with refuge managers, consultation with legal experts, analysis of official criminal and family law data, and a review of relevant academic and newspaper archives.
What topics are addressed in the main body?
The main body covers the definition of domestic violence, the sociological characteristics of Irish families, specific obstacles for marginalized groups, and a detailed review of Irish laws and the daily reality of women's shelters.
Which keywords characterize this work?
Key terms include Domestic Violence, Ireland, Austria, Women's Refuges, Irish Legislation, and Financial Dependency.
How does the situation of "Traveller" women differ from the general population?
The text highlights that "Traveller" women face unique difficulties due to their traditional lifestyle and exclusion from mainstream society, resulting in limited access to education, legal advice, and support services.
Why does the author compare Ireland with Austria?
The author uses Austria as a comparative model to illustrate differences in public initiatives, financial support, and institutional approaches to protecting victims of domestic violence.
- Quote paper
- Elisabeth Luger (Author), 2005, Domestic Violence in Ireland and Austria, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/35870
