Jennie’s Law: A Landmark Step Forward in Ireland’s Response to Domestic Abuse

Today marks a historic milestone in Ireland’s efforts to prevent domestic abuse and strengthen protections for those at risk.

Jennie’s Law has now been signed into law by President Catherine Connolly, establishing Ireland’s first-ever Domestic Violence Judgements Register. This landmark legislation creates a public register of people convicted of serious domestic violence offences against a current or former intimate partner, helping individuals make more informed decisions while promoting greater accountability and safety.

Honouring Jennifer Poole’s Legacy

Jennie’s Law is named in memory of Jennifer “Jennie” Poole, who was tragically murdered by her former partner in 2021.

Following Jennie’s death, her family campaigned tirelessly for legislative reform that would help protect others from experiencing similar abuse. Their determination has led to a significant change in Irish law, creating a lasting legacy in Jennie’s name and providing an important new safeguard for people who may be entering or leaving relationships.

While no legislation can erase the pain of those who have lost loved ones to domestic violence, Jennie’s Law represents a meaningful commitment to learning from tragedy and taking action to prevent future harm.

What Is the Domestic Violence Judgements Register?

The new register will contain information relating to individuals convicted of serious domestic violence offences against a current or former partner.

Its purpose is to:

• Improve public safety.
• Increase accountability for perpetrators of domestic abuse.
• Help people make more informed decisions about their personal relationships.
• Strengthen Ireland’s response to domestic and gender-based violence.

The register forms part of a wider commitment to recognising domestic abuse as a serious societal issue that requires strong legal protections alongside education, prevention and support services.

Every Step Forward Matters

Domestic abuse affects women from every background, community and age group. It is not limited to physical violence; it can also involve coercive control, emotional abuse, psychological abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse and intimidation.

For many survivors, seeking help is one of the most difficult decisions they will ever make. Laws such as Jennie’s Law send an important message that society is increasingly recognising the realities of domestic abuse and the need for stronger systems of protection.

Legislation alone cannot end violence against women, but it is a vital part of creating a culture where abuse is recognised, challenged and addressed.

Supporting Women in Donegal Since 1989

At Donegal Women’s Centre, we warmly welcome the introduction of Jennie’s Law as another important step towards improving safety, awareness and accountability.

For more than three decades, we have been delivering trauma-informed services and programmes for women across County Donegal. Since 1989, our work has centred on supporting women with compassion, dignity and respect, recognising the lasting impact that domestic, sexual and gender-based violence can have on individuals, families and communities.

To the women of Donegal—past, present and future—who have used, or may one day need, our domestic violence counselling and support services: you remain at the heart of everything we do.

Whether you are experiencing abuse yourself, supporting someone you care about, or simply looking for information, you do not have to face it alone.

We’re Here to Help

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, confidential support is available.

Donegal Women’s Centre provides trauma-informed counselling, advocacy, information and support in a safe, welcoming environment where women are listened to without judgement.

To learn more about our services or to get in touch, visit www.donegalwomenscentre.ie.

Together, we can continue working towards a future where every woman and child can live free from fear, violence and abuse.