Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I firmly believe it is about housing, justice and health. We need to focus on those areas. A cross-departmental approach needs to be taken. We must work together to support the strategy.

I also wish to ask the Minister about victims of domestic violence who are seeking support. Perhaps funding could be provided for training through Tusla or Tusla-funded services. I have worked with victims. Sometimes there are language barriers. I have also worked with people who have, for example, an intellectual disability, a hearing problem or literacy issues. Are Tusla courses available or is training provided for these victims? It is important that we can deliver for whoever comes to our door looking for help regarding domestic violence. I stress again that it is important that the different Departments - namely, the Departments of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Justice and Health - work together. As the Minister said, the issue falls under the remits of a number of Departments. If we all work together and on a cross-departmental basis, our response will be stronger.

The Minister stated that 52 victims of domestic violence are being supported with rent supplement. In the grand scheme of things, is that a low figure? Are we doing enough to get information out there? Perhaps we need to look at providing more information through local authorities.

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