This Friday, Donegal gardaí will join the nationwide initiative, Go Purple Day, to raise awareness about domestic abuse and the vital support services available to victims.

Gardaí across the Donegal Division will wear purple ribbons on their uniforms in solidarity with local domestic abuse services and survivors. Various events are planned to mark the day throughout the county.

The Donegal Women’s Centre in Letterkenny opened the initiative with a Drop-In Event today, Thursday.

Drop-In Event at the Donegal Women’s Centre today to mark Go Purple Day 2024. Photo: An Garda Síochána Donegal

Drop-In Event at the Donegal Women’s Centre today to mark Go Purple Day 2024. Photo: An Garda Síochána Donegal

An Open Day & Information Event will take place at Lifeline Inishowen in Carndonagh on Friday the 3rd of May between 10am and 2pm. Gardaí and trained counsellors will be there on the day to raise awareness about domestic abuse and to offer support to those affected by it.

“We will endeavour to answer any questions you may have on the day. Everybody is very welcome to call in for a cuppa and a chat. Wear something purple if you wish but this is optional,” a spokesperson said.

Buncrana Garda Station will be lit with purple lighting for a 24 hour period to mark the event and to reinforce the message of gardaí that support is available to all victims of domestic abuse.

Falcarragh Gardaí will hold a coffee morning at An tSean Bheairic, Falcarragh on May 3rd between the hours of 10.30am and 12.30pm. Everybody is more than welcome to call in for a cuppa, information or just for a friendly chat!

A spokesperson said: “We urge anybody who is suffering as a result of domestic violence/abuse to contact us on a 24/7 basis at: Letterkenny 074-9167100, Buncrana 074-9320540, Ballyshannon 071-9858530 or Milford 074-9153060. Always call 999 or 112 in the case of an emergency. We will provide a listening ear and advice. We can meet you at a neutral location or at the Garda Station.

“We encourage you all to get involved with us this May 3rd and support our national Go Purple Day. Above all, we are asking that you please speak to one another about this issue. Without realising, you might just give someone the crucial support that they need to begin to share some of the fear they deal with alone every day.”