Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Taoiseach for his answer. The Whips should work to make that happen as quickly as possible. However, related questions arise from these cases. The entire history of the case shows that Fiona Doyle experienced considerable difficulty in seeking legal redress. This is not uncommon.

I am not making a partisan point; I want to make a point in a fraternal way. Hundreds - maybe even scores of hundreds, for all I know - of women and children flee domestic and sexual abuse at home but cannot get accommodation. Any of the organisations that cater for those victims would tell one this. I refer to the Rape Crisis Centre and the other organisations working in this area.

Cuts in the number of people providing counsel, advice, assistance, support, love and protection are also having a sizable impact. Many of the homeless people we see on the streets who have fallen victim to drug or alcohol abuse also suffered sexual or other abuse in their earlier lives, either at home or at the hands of those in institutions. We need a wrapped around view.

As the Taoiseach and the Government are busy, and leaving aside ideological differences, it sometimes takes a case like this to shock us into responding in this way. A multi-agency, deep-rooted approach that puts children first is necessary. I would commend such an approach to the Government and I ask the Taoiseach to direct the Chief Whip to ensure we have a discussion as soon as possible.

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