Speaker’s St Patrick’s Day Event Focuses on Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence

The Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, Mr William Hay MLA, hosted his annual St Patrick's Day event this evening at Parliament Buildings. The theme of this year's event focused on support for victims of domestic violence.

The Speaker of the Assembly, William Hay MLA, said: "I am very pleased to host this year's St Patrick's Day event at Parliament Buildings, which has become one of the highlights in the Assembly calendar. Each year, alongside the celebrations, I take the opportunity to highlight support for a particular issue. I am honoured this year to recognise the contribution of the volunteers and service providers in supporting those affected by domestic violence.

"Events like this are a tangible way of the Assembly demonstrating its support for those who are affected by and working with serious issues in society. Domestic violence and the physical and mental damage it inflicts on victims and families is one of those issues. By continuing to highlight that domestic violence is unacceptable to society, we can encourage more of those living through it to come forward to report it and receive the help that is there for them."

The Minister for Justice, David Ford MLA, was a guest speaker at the Speaker's event.

Justice Minister David Ford said: "I welcome this opportunity to emphasise that, as Minister of Justice, I am fully committed to do all that I can to tackle this terrible crime.

"This evening I want to recognise the tireless enthusiasm and efforts of all the voluntary and community organisations that provide invaluable support to victims as they deal with their physical injuries and emotional traumas caused by domestic violence.

"On behalf of the Executive I want to particularly thank Women's Aid for the outstanding role they play in this work."