Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 November 2021
424. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the level of funding Tusla will be allocating to domestic violence services nationally in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58543/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra425. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the level of funding Tusla will be allocating to domestic violence services in County Donegal in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58544/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 424 and 425 together.
I was pleased to announce in Budget 2022 that Tusla will be allocated €899m for 2022, which is an increase of €41m over the amount allocated in Budget 2021. My allocation to Tusla for 2021 included €28m in core funding for Domestic Sexual and Gender-based Violence (DSGBV) services and an additional €2m in contingency funding to support challenges of DSGBV service providers arising from COVID-19.
The specific amount to be used for the purpose outlined by the Deputy is not yet established. However, I have directed Tusla to use part of these additional resources to maintain supports for DSGBV services and address the recommendations arising from Tusla’s Accommodation Review relating to refuge provision.
I have issued my Performance Statement to Tusla outlining the overall parameters of Tusla's financial resources, and signalling my priorities for the coming year. In response to this, Tusla will prepare its annual Business Plan for 2022 in accordance with section 46 of the Child and Family Agency Act 2013. This outlines the proposed activities for the year and the details of the proposed allocation of total financial resources.
It is of the utmost importance that the needs of those who experience domestic violence are met in the most appropriate way possible. I strongly support the work of Tusla and its funded service providers and I am committed to supporting Tusla in meeting the needs of individuals who experience domestic violence.
