Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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244. To ask the Minister for Health if he will consider a submission from an organisation (details supplied) about the rationalisation of health services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19310/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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In 2010 the National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence was published. It aims to provide a framework for sustainable intervention to prevent and effectively respond to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence and is lead by Cosc which is the National Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence. The HSE subsequently published its own Policy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence. The principal actions are in line with the National Strategy. The HSE’s policy states that a health-focused analysis of violence is crucial, not only because the consequences of such violence require a significant amount of healthcare system resources, but most importantly because the health care system is often the first route through which victims seek to access supports. Nationally the HSE funds 42 frontline domestic violence service providers. 20 of these provide refuge accommodation and this number has risen from 15 since 2000. The services provide a wide range of supports such as crisis refuge, advocacy and counselling and were funded to the amount of €13.465 Million in 2012. In relation to the specific issue raised by the Deputy, as this is a service issue it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.