Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I very much support Deputy O'Callaghan's Bill and appreciate the opportunity to acknowledge the great work that is being done. Over the years as a politician, I have unfortunately dealt with people who have been living in abusive relationships and who have had terrible ordeals and tough times. I acknowledge the great work that is being done in my own county by those involved with the Kerry rape crisis intervention centre and in the women's refuge. Great services are provided by both at a critical time in people's lives. We are talking about women in very bad relationships whose lives and those of their children are in danger. I also want to acknowledge the work that is done by the housing agencies, the local authorities and homeless agencies when dealing with people who are extremely vulnerable and in many cases, terrified. That is why this Bill is so important, as making sure we have the necessary funds in place to deal with whatever situations arise is important. The last thing we want is for people to need help and safety and to need the agencies of the State to be there to support them, only for funding to be an issue. Funding should not be an issue in those circumstances. As Oireachtas Members, we must make sure the tools are in place to take care of people at vulnerable and dangerous times in their lives. That is so important.

The people who work in this area and who take care of people and assist them are the unsung heroes. Their job is extremely stressful. The minute the phone rings or the knock comes to the door, they know they may be dealing with people fleeing from terribly bad situations. The more experienced Members of this House who have been involved in politics for a lot longer than me have seen all types of sad things happening. That is why Deputy O'Callaghan and his very worthwhile Bill deserve to be supported by everyone in this House. I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the debate.

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