Eamonn Maloney (Dublin South West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle's office for selecting this Topical Issue matter. For years the Respond! Housing Association has carried out very valuable and important work in regard to housing. As part of its work, it has operated a refuge for women and children in my constituency for almost three years. Over that period of time, it has accommodated 55 mothers and more than 80 children who have been the victims of mental abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and, in some cases, financial abuse.

This refuge provides a safe haven for victims who, unfortunately, are victims of domestic violence. Currently, it is under some threat due to a lack of funding and that is why I highlight the issue and again bring it to the Minister of State's attention, as I know he is already aware of it. The value of this refuge cannot be underestimated. It is regrettable that in this day and age we still need this sort of facility for women and children and that they must go through this kind of experience.

People like us, as legislators, have a responsibility to offer safety to these citizens. There is an existing application for part funding for the centre which is operated by Respond! but it operates under the name Cuan Alainn. It has applied to the Child and Family Agency. I hope that when the matter is being deliberated on there will be due consideration of and sympathy for Respond!’s predicament in trying to provide this service.

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