Purple flowers have been planted at Lifford Garda Station today as gardaí mark ‘Go Purple Day’ to raise awareness about domestic abuse and the domestic abuse support services available to those affected in Ireland.
Gardaí across the Donegal division will be wearing a purple ribbon on their uniform in support of local domestic violence services and in support of victims.
Community Garda Catherine Callaghan with Aine O’Donnell, Michael Devenney, Helen Glenn (Donegal Domestic Violence Centre), Colin McCarron, Mary McDermott and LIsa Blackburn when they planted purple flowers to mark Domestic Violence Awareness Day at Lifford Garda Station. (North West Newspix)
Over the last number of years, there has been a year-on-year increase in reporting rates of domestic abuse. In 2024, An Garda Síochána received in excess of 65,000 domestic abuse-related contacts or an average of 1,250 reports every week.
The investigation and prosecution of offenders in the area of domestic and sexual abuse is an absolute priority. For example, following the introduction by Government of additional legislation to assist An Garda Síochána, in 2023 and 2024 gardaí helped secure 41 prosecutions for coercive control.
Members of the public as well as Garda personnel nationwide, have been encouraged to show their support today by wearing something purple.
You can support #GoPurpleDay by embracing the colour purple at home, while at work or among friends and family – wear it, paint it – all ideas are welcome.
Community Garda Catherine Callaghan with some local school children who helped plant some purple flowers to raise awareness to Domestic Violence Awareness Day at Lifford Garda Station. (North West Newspix)
Those getting involved in the initiative are encouraged to share a photo via social media using the hashtag #GoPurpleDay2025.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please contact 999 or 112 or your local Garda Station. Feel free to call to any Garda Station to get information in relation to Domestic Abuse Support Services that are available.
