Teresa Costello (Fianna Fail)

Last week, the new housing plan was unveiled by the Minister for housing, Deputy James Browne. I draw particular attention to page 61 of it, where an important and long overdue commitment has been made. In summary, the plan ensures that when a victim of domestic violence must relocate to a new local authority, they will not face barriers in accessing housing supports. Crucially, it provides that victims can immediately avail of the full suite of social housing supports, including housing assistance payment, HAP, and they can transfer the time they have already spent on another local authority housing list. Local authority allocation schemes will also be required to recognise the unique circumstances of victims of domestic violence and prioritise them accordingly.

I especially welcome this inclusion in the plan because, back in November 2023 when I was a councillor on South Dublin County Council, I put forward a motion calling for exactly this change, that victims of domestic violence who move between local authorities should be allowed to carry over their time on the housing list instead of having to start again from scratch. It is encouraging to see that what was advocated for locally has now been taken on board nationally. As elected representatives, we witness first-hand the impact domestic violence has on individuals and families. The Minister's acknowledgement of this reality and the proactive steps taken in the new plan are welcome, but we must go further.

During my time as a councillor, Saoirse Domestic Violence Services offered training to elected members and staff in South Dublin County Council to help us to better support victims seeking assistance. This type of training is invaluable. All elected representatives should be both offered and undertake such training. I have raised this within my party, and we will be acting on it in the near future. I urge all parties and those of none to do the same, ensuring that we are properly equipped to respond to the victims of domestic abuse. It is not optional; it our responsibility. Only with the right knowledge, sensitivity and training can we truly fulfil the commitments that are laid out in this plan.