Ministers O’Callaghan and McEntee confirm new framework to protect children affected by domestic violence.
🛡️ Early Intervention Strategy
The Irish Government has approved the drafting of legislation to progress Operation Encompass, an initiative designed to provide immediate support for children impacted by domestic violence. The scheme will allow An Garda Síochána to notify a designated person in a child’s school when a domestic violence incident occurs at home, ensuring teachers can offer discreet care and understanding.
The measures form part of the General Scheme of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences, Domestic Violence and International Instruments) Bill 2025, which establishes a legal basis for information sharing between Gardaí and schools.
👩🏫 Supporting Children in the Classroom
Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan TD described Operation Encompass as a “concrete and practical means” of ensuring children receive compassion and support in school following distressing incidents. He emphasised that teachers will not be expected to take action beyond being sensitive to the child’s needs, with Gardaí sharing only the fact that an incident occurred—no further details.
Minister for Education and Youth Helen McEntee TD stressed the importance of timely awareness, noting that “small acts of understanding can change the course of a child’s day, and sometimes their life.” She highlighted that for many children, school is their only safe space, and knowing what is happening at home helps staff protect that environment.
🔗 Cross-Border Learning
The Irish framework draws on the success of Operation Encompass in Northern Ireland, which began as a pilot in 2021 and has since expanded to all schools. Officials from both jurisdictions will participate in a cross-border learning event, sharing insights to inform the rollout in Ireland.
🌍 Part of the Zero Tolerance Strategy
Operation Encompass is a key action under Zero Tolerance, Ireland’s Third National Strategy on domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence. The initiative aims to strengthen child protection, improve emotional wellbeing, and ensure schools are equipped to respond with sensitivity and care.
In summary: The Government’s approval to progress Operation Encompass marks a significant step in Ireland’s fight against domestic violence. By enabling schools to provide immediate, compassionate support, the initiative builds on proven success in Northern Ireland and reinforces Ireland’s commitment to a society where domestic and gender-based violence is never tolerated.
Helen-McEntee-Minister-for-Education-Picture-by-The-Official-CTBTO
