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

Domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is a major problem in society that affects many women and children. The Government and the Minister are committed to tackling it. The Government is delivering on the commitments in the zero-tolerance strategy to achieve a society in which sexual violence and the toxic attitudes that fuel it are not accepted. Since taking office, the Minister has prioritised legislation in this area, which is really important.

The recently published Women's Aid annual impact report for 2024 made for distressing reading. The data is stark. Last year, Women's Aid saw a 12% increase in contacts to its services and the highest number of contacts in its history. Behind these figures are women and children seeking help. I acknowledge the work being done by Women's Aid and by gardaí around the country. While the figures demonstrate the scale of the crisis of domestic and gender-based violence, they also show a growing willingness to recognise and call out abuse.

Domestic abuse is a devastating crime that requires a strong and co-ordinated response, as reflected in the third national strategy on domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. One of the key objectives of the zero-tolerance strategy is to encourage victims of domestic violence to come forward to report crimes committed against them. A significant amount of work has already been undertaken in this area, including the nationwide roll-out of the divisional protective service units, DPSUs, which ensure vulnerable victims are dealt with by gardaí with specialist expertise. Officers are assigned to the DPSUs to receive bespoke training on engaging with vulnerable victims.

We need more safe spaces for those who come forward to seek help. In my area, we are working hard to open a new ten-unit domestic violence refuge at the Monastery Hostel site on the Old Dublin Road in Carlow town. Amber Women's Refuge is working with Carlow County Council, the Housing Agency and Cuan to make this happen, with the tender for construction currently at the evaluation stage. I will work with all the agencies involved to ensure the refuge opens as quickly as possible.

Like all TDs, I have spoken over the years with women who were in a situation where they needed help and support. It is so important for them to know there is a place for them in a women's refuge, as well as wraparound services and supports. I acknowledge that this is a priority for the Minister. My understanding is the women's refuge in Carlow will be up and running next year. It is a priority for all of us. There were nine counties around the country that needed a refuge. I ask the Minister to make the provision of all of those refuges a priority.

It is important the services are in place and that we are there to help any woman or child who needs those supports or help.

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