Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
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472. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the funding which will be provided in 2018 and 2019 to implement the provisions of the Domestic Violence Act 2018 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24477/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The Domestic Violence Act 2018 is a landmark piece of legislation which significantly enhances the legal protections available to victims of this appalling form of violence. It is hoped to have this legislation commenced in its entirety by quarter four 2018.

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has statutory responsibility for the provision of care and protection to victims of domestic, sexual and gender based violence. Regarding the provision of funding, I am advised by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs that in 2018, Tusla is allocating €23.8 million in funding for Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence (DSGBV) services. This is an increase of 17% or €3.4 million over the amount allocated in 2015. Tusla are considering any requirements under the Domestic Violence Act 2018 in commissioning of services into the future.

The Courts Service and An Garda Síochána advise that preparatory work is underway to ensure that applicable provisions are implemented and the resource implications are being assessed for 2018.

The funding requirements for the Courts Service, An Garda Síochána and Tusla for 2019 will be considered as part of the annual Estimates process.