Recently, there has been a wave of violent attacks on women in Derry.

Speaking on the issue, Lasair Dhearg Derry Spokesperson, Lorcán Ó Duine said:

“A minimum of three women have been sexually assaulted and viciously attacked in only the last two weeks and other unconfirmed attacks are being reported to have occurred. These are only the ones that we’re hearing about as many more will go unreported due to fear of stigmatisation in the misogynistic society we live in and also due to the clear lack of trust in the PSNI.”

“In 2023, the Six Counties have seen reported sexual offences reach the highest on record with 2024’s figures yet to be released. “

“The CEO of Nexus has also previously highlighted that many people that use their services have chosen not to report their incidents of abuse to the PSNI for fear of the report not being strong enough to undergo the judicial process or even for fear of not being believed.”

“This is reflective of the society we live in. Women see no other option but to place their trust in the PSNI despite the same institution having a history of violence against women.”

“It is also noticeable that the same far right groups who champion the cause of women’s rights and wellbeing are very quiet at the moment. This is due to the fact that they’d rather blame the racial or cultural identity of the perpetrator than realise that the patriarchal society that exists under capitalism is the problem.”

“In the last four years alone, there have been 24 women murdered in the Six Counties.”

“We appeal to everyone to look out for the signs of violent attitudes towards women, especially in male circles. It is also vital to spot the signs in the street that a woman may be in danger.”

Lorcán added:

“It is the duty of every man who identifies themselves as a socialist republican to educate ourselves on the issue of patriarchy and commit ourselves to the ending of misogyny in all its forms. All men, including myself, are guilty of misogyny and it should not take the deaths of women for us to wake up to an issue that is glaring back at us in the mirror. We must make a change now and expect no admiration from women for doing so.”

“Ní Saoirse go Saoirse na mBan”