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Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2022

Tuesday, 24 May 2022

Ceisteanna (53)

Catherine Connolly

Ceist:

53. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice her plans for the establishment of a new agency to deliver services to persons affected by domestic, sexual and gender-based violence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25990/22]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

In 2020, the Department of Justice, in consultation with the Department for Children, Equality Integration Disability and Youth, initiated an audit of the effectiveness of existing structures to oversee domestic, sexual and gender-based violence policy and its implementation. 

The aim of the audit was to examine concerns about fragmentation and gaps given that responsibility for DSGBV is dispersed across various different Departments and agencies. The audit findings pointed to a need for more robust and authoritative co-ordination structures in the interest of more joined-up and effective services for victims.

To deliver what is needed, not just in the short term but into the future, the Government is considering the establishment of a statutory agency dedicated to DSGBV - an agency that will drive this work and bring the expertise and focus needed to bear on the issue.

The agency would work with all state and non-state actors to bring about the changes and improved responses that victims deserve and that the sector is calling for.

Subject to Government approval and the enactment of the necessary legislation, I would hope to have this agency up and running within 18 months.  Work has begun in my Department on the necessary scoping and planning to prepare for the design, establishment, and resourcing of the agency. 

It is envisaged that this agency would be tasked with:

- Delivering excellent services to victims of DSGBV, which will include delivering on the number of safe and accessible accommodation spaces needed for victims of DSGBV, as well as ensuring that helpline and other supports are available to everyone who requires them;

- Driving and co-ordinating the delivery of all Government actions under the third national strategy;

- Developing strategies/plans for improved and standardised data gathering and analysis to help inform future policy development and service provision;

- Conducting/commissioning research to inform future development of policy and services;

- Carrying out awareness-raising and information campaigns for victims and wider society; 

- Taking responsibility, and establish new and consistent standards for, the delivery of all DSGBV services currently provided by Tusla (including the greatly expanded provision of refuge services nationwide); and 

- Working closely with the NGO sector in a spirit of collaboration to ensure that the best possible services are in place to meet the needs of victims.

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