Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 February 2024
321. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Justice the reason Tusla have not yet committed to a budget for the Donegal Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Centre for the following year, if she can provide any assurances to staff who still await confirmation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4978/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, earlier this year the Government established Cuan, a new statutory agency with a dedicated focus on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. The agency has a specific mandate to drive the implementation of the Zero Tolerance: Third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence across Government, bringing the expertise and focus required to tackle this complex social issue. As part of its remit, the agency has responsibility for the provision of DSGBV services, including the provision and funding of refuge spaces and rape crisis centres.
Under Budget 2024, in excess of €10m in additional funding for combatting DSGBV has been allocated. This represents a significant increase and will support the implementation of the Zero Tolerance plan - including through the new agency. It will also assist the agency in meeting the acute needs for services throughout the country.
In 2024, Cuan has a total budget of approximately €59 million. Some €40.115 million of this transferred from the Department for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. Of this, approximately €36 million relates to core funding allocated to DSGBV services.
I have referred the specific question raised by the Deputy to Cuan for direct reply.
