SDLP Justice Spokesperson Sinéad McLaughlin has said that National Stalking Awareness Week 2023 represents an opportunity to inform the public of the signs of stalking, one year since it became a criminal offence.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Stalking is a truly pernicious crime that robs victims of their feelings of freedom and can lead to intense fear and anxiety that often take over someone’s life and make every day a misery.
“I was pleased that this heinous practice was at long last made a criminal offence in Northern Ireland last year, punishable by up to ten years in prison.
“The fact that 88 individuals have been arrested in the last year evidences the critical need for such a law. Legislation like this is an example of what politicians can do when we work together in functioning institutions.
“It’s important that everyone recognises stalking as behaviour that is fixated, obsessive, unwanted and repeated and that victims don’t feel that they have to suffer in silence.
“It is also imperative that we raise awareness of online stalking and harassment, which in many cases can be just as threatening and have a hugely detrimental impact on a person’s daily life.
“Despite the progress made, we still have a long way to go when it comes to stamping out such abusive behaviours for good.
“We must build on this legislation through a restored Executive agreeing a comprehensive and resourced Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy.
“Every day that we do not, we are missing the chance to make a difference for victims of gender-based violence.”
