Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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174. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number and locations of specialist domestic violence refuges; the location and number of specialist sexual violence services; her views on whether there is a deficit of services in these areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25744/18]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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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.

Services provided include emergency refuge and support services for individuals and families fleeing domestic violence, community-based domestic violence support services, and rape crisis centres around the country.

I was pleased to secure an additional €1.7 million for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence services this year. This is the second year in succession that Tusla has received a significant increase in its funding in this area. Total funding available for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence services this year is €23.8m.

I strongly support the work of Tusla, and I am committed to supporting the Agency in meeting the needs of individuals who experience domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

I recognise that there are challenges to be addressed in this area. Additional resources provided this year enable Tusla to address a number of these challenges which will ensure better outcomes for individuals and their families who need services and support. It is important that the needs of victims and survivors of domestic violence are met in the best way possible, with due attention to the quality, accessibility, and outcome of services.

Regarding the information requested about specific services and their respective locations, I have asked Tusla to forward the details to the Deputy directly.