Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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278. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views on the need for a women’s refuge at a location (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44001/19]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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Under the Child and Family Agency Act, 2013, 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 family or otherwise.

I have received representations from an organisation in County Laois with regard to the proposed development of a women's refuge in the county.

In 2019, additional funding was provided to support the national strategic review of domestic violence accommodation. The substantive work of the national review will be completed by the end of 2019, and will inform future provision of domestic violence emergency refuge accommodation.

It is important to note that while Tusla is responsible for the provision of services and supports to victims of domestic violence, the provision of capital funding for domestic violence refuges is a matter for the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.  Where appropriate, Tusla will work closely with emergency domestic violence refuges to ensure the necessary supports and services are provided.

I have requested that Tusla respond to the Deputy directly with regard to its views on the proposed development in Laois.