The substantial premises will be used for the benefit of the victims of domestic violence.
The Minister said: “During my visit to Foyle Women’s Aid I have been very impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the organisation and the excellent services they provide for the victims of domestic violence. I am very pleased to announce the handover of the two properties.
“Domestic violence is a crime which will not be tolerated, it is absolutely unacceptable.
“My Department’s action plan on tackling the problem contains some innovative and challenging pieces of work, including a media campaign that will specifically target perpetrators of domestic violence.
“We have to change people’s mindsets and attitudes on the issue by encouraging victims to come forward and by making it clear to perpetrators that they will be found out.
“The message is clear: violence in the home is wrong.”
Mr McGimpsey and the Western HSC Trust have exchanged existing 70-year leases on the two properties for 999-year leases, which effectively gives Foyle Women’s Aid ownership of the properties.
The two properties are the Foyle Women’s Aid headquarters in Pump Street and their Derry area refuge.
Notes to Editors:
- Key elements in the Government’s response in tackling domestic violence are: The inter-agency Domestic Violence Strategy – ‘Tackling Violence at Home’; prevention initiatives such as a media campaign highlighting the issue of domestic violence; and the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence.
- Tackling Violence at Home – A Strategy for Addressing Domestic Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland is a joint publication from the Northern Ireland Office and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. The first Action Plan was published alongside the Strategy and set out the actions proposed from October 2005 to March 2007. The second Action Plan covers the period up to March 2008.
- Last month Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey hosted the first meeting at Stormont of the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence. The group will co-ordinate efforts across government on domestic and sexual violence issues which affects people from all walks of life and across all age groups.
- The 24-Hour free-phone Domestic Helpline 0800 917 1414 is available to all victims of domestic violence.
- In 2006/07 over 23,000 incidents of domestic violence were reported to PSNI. More than 11,000 children are living with it on a daily basis.
- Media queries to DHSSPS Press Office on 02890 520074, or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
