Time to strengthen supports for domestic abuse survivors – Ogbu
Time to strengthen supports for domestic abuse survivors – Ogbu - The Labour Party
Councillor Helen Ogbu, Labour’s candidate in Galway West, has said urgent action is needed to tackle domestic violence following a public meeting in Galway last night, where survivors, frontline workers and public representatives came together to discuss the scale of the crisis and the gaps in support.
The meeting, held on Wednesday evening in Galway brought together speakers including Amy Donoghue of COPE Galway, survivor and activist Susan McGrady, and Labour Deputy George Lawlor. Cllr. Ogbu said the discussion highlighted the need for stronger services, greater awareness and a clear commitment from Government to support those affected, and called for immediate action to ensure no one is left without help.
Cllr. Ogbu said:
“What we heard at this meeting was both powerful and deeply concerning. We had frontline insight from Amy Donoghue in COPE Galway, we heard the lived experience of Susan McGrady, and we heard the political perspective from Deputy George Lawlor. Together, these voices painted a stark picture of a system under pressure and of people who are still struggling to access the support they need.
“This was an important discussion to have because too often domestic violence remains hidden. There are still far too many people who are afraid to speak out, afraid to seek help, and afraid they will not be believed or supported. That silence allows abuse to continue and it leaves victims isolated.
“What struck me most is that this is not a distant issue. It is happening in every community, in every part of Galway, and across the country. On the doors, people raise concerns about safety, about access to services, and about whether the system will be there for them if they need it. We cannot ignore that reality.
“Frontline organisations like COPE Galway are doing vital work, but they cannot carry this burden alone. They need proper funding, long-term planning and political backing to ensure they can meet demand. Survivors need clear pathways to safety, access to accommodation, counselling, legal supports and financial independence.
“We also need to challenge the culture that allows domestic violence to persist. That means education, awareness and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. It means creating an environment where people feel safe to come forward and where they know they will be supported every step of the way.
“Government cannot continue to take a piecemeal approach. We need a coordinated, properly resourced national response that puts victims first and ensures services are available when and where they are needed.
“I want to thank everyone who spoke at the meeting and everyone who attended. Their courage in sharing their experiences and their insights is what drives change. We must listen and we must act.
“We cannot allow fear to dictate whether someone seeks help. We cannot allow silence to protect abusers. We must stand with survivors, invest in services and strive for zero tolerance on domestic violence.”