Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 October 2022
481. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection the supports that are available to persons from her Department in the context of the recent adoption of the Dublin Declaration (details supplied) [49497/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Dublin Declaration is a joint effort within Europe to tackle domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
Primary responsibility for the development and provision of services to support victims of domestic violence rests with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
The accommodation needs of victims of domestic violence are met through a joined-up service delivery model provided by Tusla with the close involvement of housing authorities nationwide and the support of the Department of Social Protection through the provision of rent supplement.
My Department provides access to rent supplement on referral by Tusla or by prescribed Tusla-funded service providers for victims of domestic violence. This provides a fast-track approval and screening process with a simplified means test to get immediate access to rent supplement so that they are not prevented from leaving their home because of financial concerns.
Under this protocol, the standard rent supplement means test does not apply to these applicants for an initial three-month period. After three months, a further three-month extension may be provided, subject to the usual rent supplement means assessment.
After six months, if the tenant has a long-term housing need, they can then apply to their local housing authority for social housing supports and, if eligible, will be able to access the Housing Assistance Payment, a social housing support provided by Local Authorities.
The arrangements in this protocol are additional and complementary to, and not in substitution for, the range of other supports already in place for victims of domestic violence.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
