To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the increase in reported domestic abuse incidents and crimes.

Recorded incidents of domestic violence and abuse rose by 438 cases in 2013/14, which represents an increase of less than 1%. There was an increase of 1560 domestic violence and abuse crimes, which represents an increase of 14%.

However, we recognise that domestic violence is an under-reported crime, and much effort goes into ensuring that victims have the confidence to come forward and report.

The increase in recorded crimes may be due in part to an increased awareness of the support services available and increased confidence in reporting any incidence of violence and abuse to the relevant authorities and agencies.

My Department jointly leads on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse, along with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. This work is taken forward on a partnership approach across the statutory and voluntary and community sector.

The PSNI is a key partner both at the strategic and the delivery level and works closely with my officials and the other justice agencies, both on prevention work to increase reporting and ensuring a robust justice response when they do occur.