Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 May 2020
1099. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of refuge spaces available for victims of domestic violence and families affected by domestic violence; the location of each; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4192/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe response to Domestic, Sexual Violence and Gender-based Violence (DSGBV) is a cross Departmental and multi-agency issue. Policy is coordinated by the Department of Justice and Equality (DJE). Tusla, the Child and Family Agency has statutory responsibility for the care and protection of victims of DSGBV. The Department of Children and Youth Affairs is providing Tusla with €25.3m this year for almost 60 organisations that deliver services for these victims, including 22 services that provide emergency refuge and non-refuge accommodation to victims of domestic violence.
The total number of units generally available in specialist emergency accommodation in 2020 is 157, consisting of 147 units in refuge accommodation and 10 in Safe Homes. Tusla provides a directory of refuge services across the country on their website: https://www.tusla.ie/services/new-domestic-sexual-and-gender-based-violence/select-a-support-below/refuges-accommodation/
In light of the rapidly evolving public health emergency arising from Covid-19, the Department has asked Tusla to respond to you directly with regard to the number of refuge spaces currently available to victims of domestic violence, and the location of each.
