Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Bennett. I welcome the fact that she has asked me a question related to domestic and gender-based violence. It is an extremely important issue. My predecessor did much excellent work in that area. It is an area that I am committed to working on as well. The Deputy will be aware that there have been a number of developments in Ireland in recent years in respect of combating domestic violence, for instance, a key priority for me and for Cuan is the development of domestic violence refuges throughout the country but in particular in the Cavan and Monaghan region. Cuan is working with the key stakeholders, including Safe Ireland, the Department of housing, Cavan and Monaghan County Councils and the Housing Agency to progress the development of an eight-unit refuge in the region which will also include community-facing ancillary support services. Cuan has worked with Safe Ireland to fund and resource a project manager post and a change manager post in addition to supporting the organisation to form the local partnership that is needed to drive the project. Last November we welcomed the start of a site selection process for this refuge. That process is ongoing. Developments will also include safe home accommodation as both I and Cuan are aware of the need for services to be accessible to those living in rural areas.

It is important to point out that Cuan has been providing funding to Safe Ireland in Cavan and Monaghan. Last year funding of more than €230,000 was provided to Safe Ireland in Cavan and Monaghan, which operates a support service delivery, delivering advocacy, accompaniment, outreach support and information regarding options. In Monaghan, the Castleblayney area is supported by a number of Cuan's funded services, including the national 24-hour domestic violence helpline, which is operated by Women's Aid. In addition, emergency refuge accommodation services are available in the neighbouring town of Dundalk. Part 8 planning permission has been granted for the development of a new domestic violence shelter in Dundalk, comprising 16 units and six replacement units.

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