Barry Ward (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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160. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the position regarding the commitment in the Programme for Government to examine how the social protection system can better support people fleeing domestic violence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21742/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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Tackling the epidemic of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is a major priority for the Government. The Programme for Government includes a number of commitments in this regard. Establishing a zero-tolerance approach to domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence is vital for safeguarding individuals and promoting a safer society. We will ensure the implementation of the actions in the Zero Tolerance Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence and develop a successor strategy. While many of the Programme for Government commitments fall within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Justice and other Ministers, this is an issue that requires a whole of Government approach. For that reason, the Programme for Government also includes a commitment to “examine how the social protection system can better support people fleeing domestic violence.” My officials will progress work this commitment in the coming months and will report on this by the year.My Department already has provisions in places in the Rent Supplement Scheme to assist those fleeing domestic violence. Access to Rent Supplement is via a fast-track approval process to assist with short term accommodation needs. The standard Rent Supplement means test does not apply for an initial three-month period. After three months, a further three-month extension may be provided, subject to the usual rent supplement means assessment. The simplified means test ensures immediate access to this support. I trust this clarifies the position.