There were over 3,000 occasions last year when women and children seeking refuge against domestic violence could not be accommodated, according to figures released today.
In its annual report SAFE Ireland, the national organisation for 39 frontline domestic violence services says it has reached 'tipping point'.
There was a 38% increase in the number of unavailable domestic violence refuges, compared to 2009 - a total over 3,236 occasions.
Throughout the year, 7,235 women received support from domestic violence services.
Of these, 1,545 women along with 2,355 children lived in a refuge for various periods of time.
Despite some refuges doubling the number of women and children accommodated, in many cases those seeking safety were forced to return to home.
SAFE Ireland has said the figures are just the tip of the iceberg and has called on the Government to help break the cycle of domestic violence.
