Gabrielle McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy James Reilly, for coming to the House to listen to my concerns regarding the future of the Westmeath Support Service Against Domestic Abuse. The service, which helps very vulnerable people, was recently informed by Tusla that it will not receive further funding from the end of June and now faces closure. I ask the Minister to intervene to protect funding for this valuable service.

I will give one example of an experience shared by a domestic abuse victim. She writes:

My moment of truth came when I saw my two young children hiding under the kitchen table during an "argument" with their father. I remember seeing four little frightened eyes peering out from under the table and in that moment I realised that this wasn't just about me. It was damaging the children as well.

Organisations such as the Westmeath Support Service Against Domestic Abuse step in to provide a voice in the wilderness. The service is client-centred and cost-effective and is managed by Ms Ann Foley who has built up a valuable relationship over many years with the Courts Service, solicitors, the Garda, social welfare and housing services and others. This has allowed her to ensure timely interventions are made where and when they become necessary. As the Minister is aware, crisis intervention frequently requires a fast response.

On 7 May last, Ms Foley received a stark letter from Tusla in which the organisation informed her, without consultation, that it would cease funding the service she provides at the end of June. This abrupt notification is unacceptable, as was the ruthless manner in which Ms Foley was given a month's notice to shut down the service she provides. She is suddenly faced with having her meagre funding of €49,000 per annum withdrawn.

I want to inform the Minister today that this service provides a holistic service for those, primarily women, who are suffering from domestic violence.

The Minister should remember too that this is also Ms Foley's job. She has children and a mortgage and effectively, she has been told by Tusla that her job is gone. I would like to know where the €49,000 is going and who is going to look after Ms Foley's clients.

See this speech in context