Economy 'fuels domestic violence'

It is claimed domestic incidents are linked to the credit crunch

An increase in domestic violence in certain parts of Northern Ireland may be due to the credit crunch, according to an assembly member.

Ulster Unionist Basil McCrea said places that had shown the biggest rises in domestic-related crime had suffered most from the economic downturn.

Magherafelt, Foyle, Strabane and the Limavady areas showed a 14% increase.

The issue of domestic violence is to be discussed at a meeting of the Policing Board later.

Mr McCrea said there was anecdotal evidence to suggest a rise in domestic violence is linked to increased use of alcohol in the home.

"What's happening is that people can't afford to go out as much," he said.

"So they buy alcohol, they stay at home, drink at home and that leads to arguments and some things develop into more serious issues.

"There is no doubt that irresponsible drinking is at the heart of many of our problems."

Mr McCrea said other factors also came into play.

"It may be that people have more confidence in policing and that is why they are reporting more crimes, but certainly we are hearing evidence that there is a problem with regard to the economic downturn."

Figures showed a 14% increase in domestic incidents in the Foyle, Strabane, Limavady and Magherafelt districts between April to November November 2008 and the same period in 2007.