A major public awareness campaign has been launched to reassure victims of domestic abuse that support is still available to them.

The campaign, which was launched by the Department of Justice, includes ads that will begin airing on radio and television this week. These will reflect the specific issues victims face by having to stay at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"This is a really important campaign. At a time when we have all been told to stay at home, I am very conscious that for victims of domestic abuse, home can be anything but a safe place.

"That is why I want victims to know that they will continue to receive the highest priority from the civil and criminal justice system throughout this crisis. I want perpetrators to know that too," commented the Minister for Justice, Charlie Flanagan.

The department is working in collaboration with State services and organisations from the community and voluntary sector to provide as much support to victims as possible.

As part of this, An Garda Síochána has established Operation Faoisimh, an initiative designed to ensure victims of domestic violence are supported and protected throughout this period.

Meanwhile, the Legal Aid Board is giving priority to domestic violence and childcare cases, with every centre maintaining a phone line or email address for victims seeking supports, while the Courts Service is giving priority to domestic violence and childcare cases, with every district continuing to have a court open to hear applications for protection, interim barring and emergency barring orders.

The campaign has been welcomed by frontline organisations working in this area. According to Clíona Saidléar, the executive director of the Rape Crisis Network Ireland, unfortunately, "many people will be experiencing sexual violence or the escalation of sexual violence within their family at this time".

"Know that you have a right to safety from sexual violence and we are all still here and ready to support you," she said.

The CEO of Women's Aid, Sarah Benson, described this as a "critical time for our communities to rally in support of all who are vulnerable".

"It is also important that anyone who thinks that the current stress and strain of COVID- 19 offers any excuse to behave in an abusive manner is reminded that abuse is unacceptable. There is no excuse," she commented.

Seán Cooke of the Male Advice Line emphasised the importance of getting the message out there that support services are available for all victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

"It is fantastic that all services are working together with the department to get this critical message out there," he said.

Meanwhile, the Garda Commission, Drew Harris, emphasised that COVID-19 has "not diminished our service".

"An Garda Síochána is committed to your protection and to the pursuit of perpetrators of domestic violence and abuse. If you are a victim of abuse or you know someone who is, that information is important to us. Please make contact with An Garda Síochána- we are here to listen, to help and to protect. If you require urgent assistance or support, please call 999 or 112," he said.

Information on services and supports for victims of domestic abuse is available on the website, www.stillhere.ie. In an emergency, people should call the Gardai on 999 or 112.