The Justice Minister has visited police officers working to keep
people safe over the festive season.
was at Omagh PSNI station where
she met officers at the forefront of local policing, tackling
crime, reducing offending, public protection and road safety.
Minister Long said: “While the festive season brings joy for most
people, for others it is a time of sadness, fear and tragedy. It
will be a particularly busy time for the PSNI's Operation Seasons
Greetings, which aims to keep people safe in the run-up to and
over the Christmas and New Year period.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank every PSNI officer,
staff member and those working across the justice sector, who
will be proactively working day and night to provide a safer
community this festive season.”
Fermanagh and Omagh District Commander, Superintendent Robert
McGowan, said: “In the past we have seen an increase in domestic
abuse incidents over the Christmas period and we want all victims
to know that we are here for them no matter the time of day.
“Too many across Northern Ireland are subjected to domestic abuse
and very often people who are being abused feel isolated,
vulnerable and frightened and don't know where to turn.
“It is vital that victims know there is help available and we are
reaching out to victims with this message to say please contact
us or one of our partner support agencies so that we can help you
do so safely.
“We are here to help you and we will robustly investigate all
allegations of abuse and fully support you through the criminal
justice process. Please be assured that you can come forward
in confidence and speak to Detectives in Public Protection Branch
who will treat you with sensitivity and respect.
“Anyone who is suffering from domestic abuse can contact police
on the non-emergency 101 number, or 999 in an emergency.
“A 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline is also available
to anyone who has concerns about domestic or sexual abuse, now or
in the past. The number to call is 0808 802 1414.”
The visit coincides with 16 Days of Activism, a global campaign
to eliminate violence against women, which runs until December
10.
The Minister continued: “Every 17 minutes the PSNI receives a
call related to domestic abuse, however, traditionally there is a
rise in domestic abuse incidents over the Christmas period.
“The statistics around domestic and sexual abuse are well known.
But they never cease to shock – and they never should. They are
stark and they are unacceptable.
“Amidst the festivities we cannot, nor should we ever be
complacent about the scale or impact of domestic and sexual abuse
on our society, on our communities, our families, our loved ones,
the people all around us.
“So let us work together to deliver change in Northern Ireland
where everyone can be safe and free – tackling domestic and
sexual abuse is everyone's business!”
