Work to be done to tackle the hidden harms of paramilitarism – Long

There is still much to do to support women who live under the shadow of paramilitary violence and coercion, says Justice Minister Naomi Long.

The Minister made the comments following the publication of a research report commissioned by Foyle’s Women’s Aid into the links between intimate partner violence and paramilitary coercive control.

She said: “Today’s harrowing report highlights how much there is still to do, to support women who have faced paramilitary violence and coercion. We know that violence does not happen in a vacuum and violence against women and paramilitary violence are linked.

“Much work is being done to address paramilitary harm and break that cycle for future generations. It is imperative that we continue to work together to end the hidden harms like those we have heard about today and to provide safety for the brave women who have shared their experiences.”

After attending the event in the Ebrington Hotel in Londonderry/Derry, Minister Long visited the city’s Strand Road Police Station where she – along with Taoiseach Simon Harris and Chief Constable Jon Boutcher – met PSNI officers who served on the frontline during the recent disorder.

The Minister paid a final visit to an Asset Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS) funded project in the Dunluce Family Centre at Ballymagroarty. The ‘Putting Young People First’ project provides early intervention by working on the streets, supporting social justice and signposting.

“I have visited a number of community-based organisations in recent weeks and each visit – without fail – has been eye opening. It is not only the impact being felt in communities but what has struck me is the enthusiasm that exists in projects like this and the desire to make the community a better, safer place for all,” the Minister said.