Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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1593. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to provide adequate refuge accommodation for victims of domestic violence in Cavan-Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38801/13]

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.

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.