New measures to protect stalking victims have come into effect

This legislation allows stalking victims to apply to the District Court for a civil order to prohibit such behaviour from continuing.

They can also ask a Gardaí to act on their behalf.

The new legislation has been introduced in a bid to protect victims and prevent further cases of stalking.

Before this legislation was approved, victims could only apply when the stalker was a current or former partner.

The new legislation also provides for the making of orders with only one party present, where there is an immediate risk to the safety and welfare of the applicant.

The court may also grant an interim order pending the final determination of the application, where the court deems it necessary and proportionate for the safety and welfare of the applicant.

These orders will offer immediate protection to the victims.

They will prevent ongoing offending behaviour while they await the determination of their application.

Speaking about the new legislation, Minister McEntee shared:

"Providing for civil orders to prevent stalking is an important step forward in our work to tackle all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, regardless of the relationship between the victim and the perpetrator.

"Stalking can have very serious impacts on people subjected to it.

"I am introducing robust legislation to ensure that everyone has what is needed to ensure they are protected and safe and feel safe," McEntee added.

The introduction of this legislation will undoubtedly make many victims feel more supported.

However, there is so far to go when it comes to women's safety, but this is a step in the right direction.

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