Brian Stanley (Laois, Independent)
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158. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality for an update regarding a domestic violence refuge centre in Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12366/25]

Brian Stanley (Laois, Independent)
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193. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the progress made in the provision of domestic violence refuge centres for the nine counties that are currently without; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12367/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 158 and 193 together.

One of the overarching goals of the Zero Tolerance Strategy to address domestic, sexual and gender-based violence (DSGBV), is ensuring that everyone who needs a refuge space will get one. The Strategy, published in June 2022, includes an ambitious target to double the number of refuge spaces by the end of 2026. To accelerate the delivery of additional refuge accommodation year on year, Cuan, the DSGBV Agency, was established last year.

While currently almost three quarters of the population in the State is within 30 minutes of a refuge location, I am aware of the need to improve on this, and to ensure that services are accessible to everyone living in rural areas. Achieving this, including through the completion of a National Services Development Plan, is a core objective of Cuan’s Corporate Plan 2025-2027, which was published at the end of last year.

A key priority for me and for Cuan is the development of a domestic violence refuge in Laois. Cuan funds the Laois Domestic Abuse Service (LDAS) which is a support service for women and children. It delivers services including therapeutic supports, Advocacy, Accompaniment, Children’s Services, and Support and Information regarding options.

I am advised that a new 8-unit purpose-built refuge development is being progressed and LDAS is the lead domestic violence provider engaged in the development. A site has been identified and work is underway on a Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) stage 1 submission.