Taoiseach Enda Kenny has today expresssed his disgust at the perpetrators of domestic violence.

His comments follow claims that one in eight pregnant women suffer from domestic abuse and violence.

The Dáil has heard calls for fees to be scrapped for women seeking a barring order in the courts.

“It shames manhood for those who beat women,” said Mr Kenny.

“It’s a crime to beat a woman, and those who profess in their manhood or their macho-ness that they’re doing good by beating women do themselves and their families and our nation down.

“I’m apalled by it. These are two words that should never go together – domestic and violence.”