Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2014
144. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if Tusla has notified Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service of its funding for 2015 yet; if the funding will be increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47631/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraResponsibility for the funding of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence services previously funded by the HSE became the responsibility of Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, upon its establishment on 1 January, 2014.
In 2014, the Agency is providing over €17 million in funding to support the provision of Domestic and Sexual Violence services.
This includes the funding of 60 services throughout the country comprising:
- €10m for 20 Crisis Refuges and support services;
- Over €4 million for 16 Rape Crisis Centres;
- Almost €3.5 million for 24 Domestic Violence Support Services.
The Agency has undertaken a review of services in this area and has engaged with funded organisations in the course of the review of services. Representatives of all those involved in the delivery of services were invited to consultations during the review process. This review has now concluded and a roadmap for the future of service delivery has been prepared and approved by Agency’s Board. A structure for the national oversight of Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence services is currently being put in place by the Agency.
The Agency's budgetary arrangements for 2015 are currently being finalised, and the Agency will liaise with funded Domestic Violence services regarding services required in 2015. Domestic Violence services are being accorded high priority by the Agency in the context of its budgetary allocation and frontline services will be prioritised.
I will communicate further with the Deputy with regard to Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service when the Agency has advised me of the position with regard to 2015 funding.
