James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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591. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if capital investment will be made available to an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50428/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has statutory responsibility for the care and protection of victims of domestic, sexual and gender based violence whether in the context of the family or otherwise. At all times, Tusla’s key priority is to ensure that the needs of victims of domestic violence are being met in the best way possible.

In 2017, I provided Tusla with funding of over €22 million for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence services. This was an increase of €1.5 million over 2016. Arising from Budget 2018, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that a further increase in funding of €1.7 million is being provided to Tusla next year for these services.

Tusla's priority is to achieve the best outcomes for victims of domestic violence from the use of its available resources. The provision of capital funding for refuges is dealt with by the Housing Authorities and the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

Tusla is aware that there have been discussions locally between the organisation in question and Wexford County Council about a potential development, and has indicated that it will work with all key stakeholders in enhancing responses to victims of domestic violence in County Wexford.