“Violence against women and girls is the shame of our society and we must do everything possible to end it.” These were the words of Natalie McNally's heartbroken brother Declan yesterday after Stephen McCullagh was sentenced to life in prison for her horrific murder. It is a sharp reminder of the dangers women face. Today violence against women and girls is at epidemic levels across Ireland. The first government strategy was delivered 15 years ago this month. Progress is far too slow - a judicial system that does not work for victims, court cases taking too long, support services underfunded and overstretched. Despite Jennie's law receiving Cabinet approval last October, we still do not have a register of domestic abusers to protect women from repeat offenders. When will we see a step change from Government to deliver change and bring the determination required to eliminate violence against women and girls?

Sentiment score: -0.25