Departmental Funding

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 May 2016

Tuesday, 31 May 2016

Ceisteanna (197, 198)

Jonathan O'Brien

Ceist:

197. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will commit to funding a new sexual abuse and violence in Ireland study. [12925/16]

Jonathan O'Brien

Ceist:

198. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the cost of commissioning a new sexual abuse and violence in Ireland study. [12926/16]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality

I propose to take Questions Nos. 197 and 198 together.

The overall cost of a second Sexual Abuse and Violence in Ireland study (SAVI 2) is likely to be in the order of €1 million over three years. The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre suggested that, given the significant budget, funding would be divided between four Departments. Following consultations with the Departments concerned, funding the project as proposed is not viable.

A balance must be struck between the funding of front-line services and funding research. However, my Department continues to investigate the financial feasibility, resource implications and approaches to identifying a ring-fenced funding stream for undertaking this body of work at this time and to explore obligations with regard to requisite public procurement arrangements.