Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1202. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the counselling services available for persons seeking support as survivors of sexual abuse in counties Louth and Meath; if there is a waiting time involved for such services; and her views that such services are sufficient to meet the needs of persons in Counties Louth and Meath. [9742/16]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency provides funding to Rape Crisis North East for provision of counselling and support services for victims and survivors of sexual violence in the north eastern part of the country.

Additionally, the 24 Hour sexual violence national helpline, operated by Dublin Rape Crisis Centre is accessible 24/7 for individuals from any part of the country who have experienced sexual violence. The helpline is also available to family and friends.

Tusla, along with other agencies, provides counselling and support to children who have been sexually abused and their families. If a child is taken into care as a result of sexual abuse, the allocated social worker in Tusla will provide counselling and support.

Rape Crisis North East operates a comprehensive suite of support services which includes telephone support, accompaniment (e.g. Garda, Court) and counselling services for women, men and older children who have experienced sexual violence.

In addition to services at the organisation’s offices in Dundalk, Co. Louth, outreach counselling is provided in Drogheda, County Louth and Castleblayney, County Monaghan to facilitate greater access to services across the North East region.

Tusla has advised that it is aware that there are some waiting times for access to counselling services at a number of Rape Crisis/Sexual Violence services. However, those on waiting lists are provided with an initial assessment and support services. Waiting lists are actively monitored so that those in greatest need are prioritised appropriately.

Tusla has been assured by Rape Crisis North East and other organisations providing services to victims of sexual violence, that individuals in a crisis situation are prioritised and seen immediately or as soon as operationally possible.

As part of commissioning developments, the Tusla domestic, sexual and gender based violence services programme is seeking to assure that services are matched to identified needs. Tusla is actively engaged with Rape Crisis North East and other stakeholders to determine how to address gaps in services. Additional funding is being made available for outreach services this year.