Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I think we can all agree that the zero-tolerance culture and reality is one that we strive for across Irish society. However, it is important to acknowledge that we have very significant ground to make up and that for far, far too long, this issue did not have the kind of political priority or social priority that it so rightly deserves. The funding for services is inadequate. The Taoiseach cited an increase. I invite him, on this day when we hear of the highest level of reports to Women’s Aid in its 50-year history, to go back to the drawing board and to stress-test what is necessary for these incredible services that save lives, and save women and children, so they are properly and adequately resourced. He should check, see and talk to the sector, and he will find that that is not the case now. As we speak, Roscommon, Carlow, Cavan, Laois, Leitrim, Longford, Monaghan, Offaly and Sligo have no refuge provision. That is the current position. I would like a commitment and a timeline from the Taoiseach as to when those nine counties will have refuge provision. Can he give us that date and timeline today?

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