Source: The Green Party in Northern Ireland
Green Party NI Slams Delay on Safe Leave for Domestic Abuse Victims
It’s been over three years since the Green Party NI passed the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) (Northern Ireland) Act, yet victims in Northern Ireland (NI) are still waiting for their right to 10 days paid leave.
Despite previous assurances, the regulations needed to make this law a reality won’t be in place until at least late 2026 according to Departmental officials.
Green Party Councillor for Holywood & Clandeboye Lauren Kendall said: “This delay is unacceptable. Safe Leave is already standard in countries like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. England and Wales are following suit and catching up. Why is Northern Ireland falling behind?
Life saving actions need to be swift. The Government has pledged to end violence against women and girls, and tackle domestic and sexual abuse, yet victims are going without vital support.
This is not good enough, this is a societal issue, a workplace issue, and it should be a priority for this Executive. We will not accept inaction, this must be in place now.
Last year alone, police recorded nearly 30,000 domestic abuse incidents here. Victims can’t afford to wait any longer for support and protection that is already legislated for The Minister for the Economy must ensure that this is in place as a matter of urgency.”
ENDS