Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
954. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the capacity of Wexford women’s refuge; the current occupancy level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33407/20]
View answerThe Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) provided €25.3m to Tusla for DSGBV services this year, with an additional €1.2m allocated for additional costs incurred due to COVID-19. Spending on DSGBV services has increased by €4.7m since 2016. In Budget 2021, I prioritised additional resources for Tusla, so that it can meet the needs of its diverse base of service users, including victims of DSGBV. This is particularly important for DSGBV services in the context of COVID-19.
Tusla is currently undertaking a strategic review of emergency accommodation for victims of domestic violence. The review will provide insight into current distribution of services and unmet needs. This review and the recommendations of the Monitoring Committee for the Second National Strategy on DSGBV will inform decisions on future service provision.
With regard to the Deputy's specific query on the current capacity and occupancy levels of Wexford Women's Refuge, this is an operational issue for Tusla. I have requested that Tusla respond directly to the Deputy on this matter.
