Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Most of the points have been covered but I will stress that some of the most important services they offer is counselling. One does not just physically need a safe place; one also emotionally and mentally needs an safe place. Many times, people will go back to a negative relationship if they do not have the support.

On the play therapy services that are often offered for children, play therapy is often underrated. It is an excellent service for children for many reasons but particularly in this situation. My experience of refuges is that they are always struggling for funding. The counselling budget is often separate from the Tusla money. If there is additional money there, I ask that they look at providing services like counselling and play therapy, which give a more holistic approach. Is there a possibility we could get a breakdown of the additional money going to Tusla and which services it is going to? Is some going to school completion or domestic violence and so on? I do not expect the Minister to answer that now.

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