A 26% increase in cases of domestic violence has been recorded in west Cork over the past year.
It's more than double the increases seen in both the city division and in the North Cork garda division.
Gardaí say while the impact of the pandemic, lockdowns and travel restrictions is playing a part in the increase some of the cases are historic and are being brought to light with the help of the recently established Protective Services Unit at Dunmanway garda station.
Speaking to RedFM News Cork TD Aindrias Moynihan says the numbers are worrying as some family cases have been delayed as a result of the pandemic.
"it's very worrying to see that kind of level of increase, and also at a time when the courts seem to be slowing down seeing a 14% reduction of family law cases that were dealt with last year.
"Of course Gardai very keen to point out that the 5k travel limit won't apply to people fleeing from a violent situation, and it's very important for people to know that that support is out there as well."
