The Tánaiste, Frances Fitzgerald, is to make it easier to get barring orders in domestic violence cases.
A law change will mean victims will be able to avoid appearing in court in person and can give evidence via video link instead.
They will also have the right to be accompanied by a friend or family member, and have greater privacy protection.
Commenting on the bill, the Tánaiste noted that tackling domestic violence had been a priority throughout her career.
“The Bill will particularly improve the protections available to victims of domestic violence, most critically for cohabitants and parents in crisis situations.
[This will be achieved] by introducing a new emergency barring order which can last for up to eight working days”, she said.
It is hoped the changes will be in place by this summer.
The only effective bystander intervention is a non-violent one. If you see or suspect domestic abuse in the South East visit www.whatwouldyoudo.ie or call 999.
