Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Plans are in place for refuge places. These locations have been chosen on the basis of required proximity to a refuge as well as a need for refuge spaces per head of population in densely populated areas. They represent areas where there is the most significant under-provision and are a starting point to increasing refuge spaces comprehensively in every county throughout the country. We have committed to the delivery of 24 refuge places, which is currently under way in Wexford, Dundalk and Navan, by 2024. We will deliver 98 refuge units in priority locations by 2025.

On north County Dublin, it is my intention that every person who needs a refuge space will have access to one. That is the Government's intention. As a start, the strategy commits to doubling the number of refuge places to 280. This will be the fastest ever expansion of refuge spaces. We will also work to deliver additional safe houses and step-down accommodation. The review of accommodation services for victims of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence undertaken by Tusla identifies priority locations where there is a particular urgency.

On Deputy Murnane O'Connor's question, part of the work being undertaken is to assess the readiness of locations to proceed with the construction of refuges having regard to local capacity, availability and suitable sites. My Department will engage with groups, including those in Carlow and in my constituency of Cavan-Monaghan, because we have no refuge there either. Making additional spaces available as soon as possible is a priority for me and this Government. Carlow, Cavan and Monaghan are on the list of priority locations.

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