Paul Kehoe
Ceist:91. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice if her Department provides funding for victim organisations; if so, the purpose of this funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16193/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 29 March 2022
Ceisteanna (91)
Freagraí scríofa
Protecting and supporting victims of crime is a key priority for me as Minister for Justice.
My Department provides funding to NGOs that support victims of crime by providing important information and supports such as emotional support, court accompaniment, and accompaniment to Garda interviews, to sexual assault treatment units and referral to other services.
Last week I announced funding totalling €4.6m for more than 60 organisations to support victims of crime as part of this scheme. This is an increase of over 20% on the previous total fund of €3.8m which was made available in 2021.
The vast majority of organisations have seen increases in their funding and a number of new applicants for Victims of Crime funding received allocations for the first time.
This 2022 funding builds on funding announced last November under the Supporting a Victim’s Journey plan.
This additional funding was provided to 18 organisations to address gaps in services identified on foot of a mapping exercise looking at the geographical spread and type of services available for victims nationwide.
The allocations under the scheme this year cover a range of services that provide support to victims such as:
- National and larger organisations such as Barnardos, Women’s Aid and the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre;
- A range of local organisations working with victims across the country, such as Women’s Aid in Dundalk, Wexford Rape Crisis and Letterkenny Women’s Centre;
- General victims support organisations such as the Crime Victims Helpline; and
- Specialist organisations including the Irish Tourist Assistance Service and Dignity 4 Patients.
I am sure the Deputy will agree that such organisations provide an essential service for victims of crime.
I am committed to continuing to work with them and with my colleagues across Government to build a victim-centred criminal justice system that treats victims with respect and dignity at every step of their journey through it.