David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for her work and sincerity in this area. It is very important. A range of integrated supports are required in order to reduce the need for women and families to use emergency accommodation and to ensure that families disrupted by domestic violence can be supported to resume normal and safe family living beyond refuse-type accommodation within the shortest possible timeframe. It is acknowledge that there are concerns in regard to the level of refuse space in the Carlow and Kilkenny area. However, there are a range of outreach services available, including information, advice, a 24-hour helpline and counselling. These outreach services are offered in a number of locations in County Kilkenny, as the Deputy knows.

Tusla is looking at the needs across Carlow and Kilkenny with Amber involved as the main provider of refuse services for women and families across the two counties.

The recommendation of the Council of Europe is for one refuse space per 10,000 adult women. According to the Council of Europe's analytical study of the results of the fourth round of monitoring the implementation of recommendation rec (2002)5 on the protection of women against violence, published in 2014, Ireland's ratio of refuse space relative to the population is higher than the recommended rate.

I know that the Minister, Deputy Zappone, will be happy to update the Deputy and her colleagues in the area on any related matters or developments. Again, I want to thank the Deputy for raising this very important matter.

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